5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Interlaken and Zurich
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Switzerland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Basel, 1 night in Interlaken, and 1 night in Zurich. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Basel, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Rhine Falls and Chapel Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Interlaken, Beatenberg, Lucerne, Zurich, and Neuhausen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.
Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Basel - arrival day
- Basel - Arrival day
- More
- Mittlere Brücke
- More
Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Basel is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Middle Bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Basel. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Basel. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cargo Kultur Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? KOHLMANNS offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss tibits. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.
Continue your lively evening at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grenzwert Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 8 Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2 – Basel and Interlaken
- Basel
- Interlaken
- More
Drive 155 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Basel Minster
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
- Kannenfeld Park
- Zoo Basel
- More
On day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Basel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Interlaken, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start by visiting Basel Minster, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Fine Arts Museum Basel, another must-visit landmark and underrated museum renowned for its respected features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Basel by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kannenfeldpark. This peaceful park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Basel Zoo also adds charm to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Interlaken. Interlaken offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Interlaken's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Interlaken by reserving a table at Radius by Stefan Beer. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional and swiss menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Palace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Brasserie 17, known for its lively atmosphere.
Head back to your accommodation in Interlaken and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3 – Interlaken, Beatenberg, Lucerne, and Zurich
- Interlaken
- Beatenberg
- Lucerne
- Zurich
- More
Drive 203 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Titlis Cliff Walk
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Chapel Bridge
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Beatenberg and Lucerne, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beatenberg. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the cave system before you continue to your next stop.
Begin your journey at Titlis Cliff Walk and explore the mesmerizing features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zurich. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Lion Monument Lucerne, an interesting monument known for its culturally significant features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a popular museum that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Chapel Bridge and uncover the details of this visually striking historical landmark.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zurich, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Zurich, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, The Restaurant is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Widder Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Rio Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 4 – Zurich, Neuhausen, and Basel
- Zurich
- Neuhausen
- Basel
- More
Drive 152 km, 2 hours 44 min
- Lindenhof
- Grossmünster
- Zürich Zoo
- Rhine Falls
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zurich and Neuhausen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Basel, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a historical landmark, a church, and a zoo. Lindenhof is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Grossmünster, an intriguing church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zürich Zoo, a historic zoo, also available for your discovery today.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zurich and set your GPS to Neuhausen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 48 min. Upon reaching Neuhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Rhine Falls, an astonishing waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Basel. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Basel's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional classic french menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, roots, known for its delicious modern and seasonal cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Basel is Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative and modern menu.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Consum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to L'atelier, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 5 – Basel - departure day
- Basel - Departure day
- More
- Tinguely Fountain
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Basel before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Basel’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.
Start your day at Tinguely Fountain. This picture-perfect art installation is a beloved place to see in Basel.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.
If you're eager to try something different, consider HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Basel. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.