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

1 / 45
Photo of riverside of Rhine in Basel dominated by majestic building of Munster church, Switzerland.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of Switzerland on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Basel, Zurich, Neuhausen, Lucerne, Bern, Schattenhalb, Beatenberg, Gruyères, and Pringy.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Switzerland. You will spend 2 nights in Basel, 2 nights in Zurich, and 2 nights in Bern. 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 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, Zurich, Neuhausen, Lucerne, Bern, Schattenhalb, Beatenberg, Gruyères, and Pringy, 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, accommodations, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Basel

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Basel - Arrival day
  • More
  • Mittlere Brücke
  • More

Welcome to Basel, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Basel before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Basel. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Schall Und Rauch Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Grenzwert Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 8 Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Switzerland!

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Basel
  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 86 km, 1 hour 37 min

  • Basel Minster
  • Fine Arts Museum Basel
  • Tinguely Fountain
  • Zoo Basel
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Basel. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zurich, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Let Basel Minster set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic church before continuing your journey. Fine Arts Museum Basel is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Basel.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Tinguely Fountain. This gorgeous art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Basel Zoo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zurich. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Widder Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Rio Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 9 km, 34 min

  • Lindenhof
  • Zürich Zoo
  • Old Town (Altstadt)
  • Bahnhofstrasse
  • Niederdorf
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zurich.

A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Bahnhofstrasse, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Lindenhof is must-visit historical landmark and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Zürich Zoo, a popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cantinetta Antinori, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Lokal, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aurora. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Eldorado, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gotthard Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at La Stanza, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Zurich
  • Bern
  • More

Drive 271 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Rhine Falls
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Spreuerbrücke
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Neuhausen and Lucerne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bern, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Check out the spectacular waterfall, Rhine Falls. Afterward, continue to Lion Monument Lucerne, a monument every traveler should visit. As you explore Zurich’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Chapel Bridge. This well-known historical landmark is an essential stop. Following that, head to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bern by booking a table at ZOE, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Steinhalle, renowned for its delectable creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Wein & Sein, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bern. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Zum Kuckuck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Piazza Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Taube is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Bern
  • More

Drive 242 km, 4 hours 44 min

  • Titlis Cliff Walk
  • Aare Gorge
  • Aare Gorge - West Entrance
  • Harderkulm
  • St. Beatus Caves
  • More

Wake up to day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Meiringen, Schattenhalb, Harderkulm, and Beatenberg. With 1 night to stay in Bern, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Check out the well-known canopy walk, Titlis Cliff Walk. Afterward, continue to Aare Gorge, a canyon every traveler should visit. As you explore Bern’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the region.

Next, make your way to Aare Gorge West Entrance. This locally appreciated canyon is an essential stop. Following that, head to Harderkulm, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, a curiosity-inducing cave system in the region.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bern.

Bern is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bern.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gourmanderie Moléson, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ebrietas Bern. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Adrianos Bar & Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Bern
  • Basel
  • More

Drive 233 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • bear pit
  • Castle of the counts of Gruyères
  • La Maison du Gruyère
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Bern, Gruyères, and Pringy. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel, where will spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Unesco - Bern Old Town. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bear Pit located in Bern for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Château De Gruyères. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to La Maison Du Gruyère. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this museum.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl in Basel by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious classic french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore roots, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and seasonal cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Consum, known for its inviting atmosphere. L'atelier is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Basel - Departure day
  • More
  • Freie Strasse
  • More

Day 7 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 you shouldn't miss while in Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Basel’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.

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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.