5-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling east to Interlaken and Zurich

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Basel. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit roots, celebrated for its delectable modern and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Schall und Rauch Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Basel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Interlaken. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Basel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Interlaken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 45 min. When you arrive in Interlaken, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basel Minster, head to Fine Arts Museum Basel. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,049 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Basel Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 visitors. Visiting Basel Zoo means you'll be one of 2,012,511 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Kannenfeldpark. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,501 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Interlaken. Interlaken offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Interlaken.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Radius by Stefan Beer in Interlaken by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Radius by Stefan Beer delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious regional and swiss cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try OX Restaurant & Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pizzeria Horn as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Interlaken.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Brasserie 17 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Say good night to Interlaken and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lucerne, Harderkulm, and Innertkirchen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Zurich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lucerne behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Zurich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Swiss Museum of Transport. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 visitors and gets around 562,605 visits every year.

Lion Monument Lucerne is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sculpture has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,294 travelers.

Lucerne is also the home of Chapel Bridge. Around 29,995 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Harderkulm’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Interlaken behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Harderkulm welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Harderkulm, a remarkable mountain where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,635 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zurich, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.

Begin your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rio Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Stanza offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Head back to your accommodation in Zurich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 4 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 Neuhausen and Zurich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zurich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 48 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Rhine Falls, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Neuhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 48 min. When you arrive in Neuhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lindenhof. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,365 visitors.

Grossmünster is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church building has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 visitors.

Zürich Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,267 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Basel, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, KLARA 13 AG is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Basel tonight.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

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.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Basel’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Take home a piece of Switzerland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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 in the mood to try something new, consider Unternehmen Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!