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

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 Zurich, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Basel Minster, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Fine Arts Museum Basel, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited museum renowned for its heritage-rich 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 Tinguely Fountain. This noteworthy art installation 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 Zurich. Zurich 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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, recognized for its delicious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

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

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 Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Zurich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Swiss National Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Lindenhof, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Grossmünster, an often recommended church. For a change of scene, check out Zürich Zoo, known for its awe-inspiring features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zurich. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Lokal, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aurora, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eldorado, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Neuhausen and Lucerne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Neuhausen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zurich to Neuhausen may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neuhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Rhine Falls, a widely recognized waterfall in Neuhausen. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Neuhausen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lucerne may take around 1 hour 24 min. Upon your arrival in Lucerne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a captivating museum in Lucerne. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Lion Monument Lucerne. This popular monument is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Chapel Bridge is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting historical landmark in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bern. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bern. 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Steinhalle, famous for its scrumptious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wein & Sein, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Bern. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Zum Kuckuck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Piazza Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Taube, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your journey at Titlis Cliff Walk and explore the instagrammable features.

Aare Gorge is an underrated canyon we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Schattenhalb and set your GPS to Harderkulm. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Harderkulm, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Aare Gorge West Entrance, an intriguing canyon 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 the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bern.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated dining spot in Bern. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gourmanderie Moléson, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bern.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Ebrietas Bern, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Adrianos Bar & Café, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Les Amis / Wohnzimmer likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Bern, Gruyères, and Pringy, 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 Basel. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings a peaceful, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, and a heritage-rich. The first attraction of today is Bear Pit. This popular zoo is an enchanting place to see in Bern.

Set your GPS to Gruyères and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gruyères beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château De Gruyères. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Basel, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pringy to Basel may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Basel, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to La Maison Du Gruyère, an intriguing museum that everyone visiting Pringy should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 you explore more of Basel, 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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Consum offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, L'atelier is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Switzerland.