6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Bern and Zurich

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Explore the best of Switzerland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Basel, Bern, Beatenberg, Lucerne, Neuhausen, and Zurich. This road trip itinerary in Switzerland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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, 2 nights in Bern, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Zürich Zoo, learn more about the unique Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Titlis Cliff Walk.

As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Bern, Beatenberg, Lucerne, Neuhausen, and Zurich, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Mittlere Brücke
Basel MinsterFine Arts Museum BaselTinguely FountainZoo Basel
bear pitSt. Beatus CavesHarderkulmTitlis Cliff Walk
SpreuerbrückeChapel BridgeLion Monument LucerneRhine Falls
LindenhofZürich Zoo
Freie Strasse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Basel - Arrival day
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  • Mittlere Brücke
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Say hello to Basel! Your exciting road trip through Switzerland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Basel for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cargo Kultur Bar, a popular restaurant in Basel. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Basel at KOHLMANNS, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated tibits. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Basel tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Schall Und Rauch Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Grenzwert Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 8 Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Basel
  • Bern
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Drive 97 km, 1 hour 41 min

  • Basel Minster
  • Fine Arts Museum Basel
  • Tinguely Fountain
  • Zoo Basel
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Basel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Basel allows for both. Start by heading to Basel Minster. This increasingly popular church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fine Arts Museum Basel, an eye-catching museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Tinguely Fountain, an often recommended art installation. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Basel Zoo.

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

As you explore more of Bern, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bern by booking a table at ZOE. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Zum Kuckuck after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Piazza Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Die Taube also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bern
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Drive 222 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • bear pit
  • St. Beatus Caves
  • Harderkulm
  • Titlis Cliff Walk
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bern, Beatenberg, and Harderkulm. You still have 1 night left in Bern.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views in the charming city of Bern. Your adventure starts at Bear Pit, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves. This increasingly popular cave system is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bern's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Harderkulm. This serene observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Titlis Cliff Walk is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bern and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gourmanderie Moléson is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bern tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ebrietas Bern, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Adrianos Bar & Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bern
  • Zurich
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 50 min

  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Rhine Falls
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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 Lucerne and Neuhausen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Bern. Your adventure starts at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Chapel Bridge. This popular historical landmark is known for its grand appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bern's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This picture-perfect monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Rhine Falls is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zurich. Zurich offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zurich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Widder Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rio Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zurich
  • Basel
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Drive 104 km, 1 hour 39 min

  • Lindenhof
  • Zürich Zoo
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zurich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Lindenhof, an interesting historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Zürich Zoo and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking zoo.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Basel. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, roots is one of the best restaurants for modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Consum after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to L'atelier for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Basel - Departure day
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  • Freie Strasse
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Day 6 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Freie Strasse, a street that captures the true essence of Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Basel's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Switzerland.

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!

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