7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling south to Bern, Lausanne, and Zurich
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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, 2 nights in Bern, 1 night in Lausanne, 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 Chillon Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Bern, Beatenberg, Geneva, Lausanne, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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.
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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 delicious meal at Cargo Kultur Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're eager to try something different, consider KOHLMANNS, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at tibits. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.
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 7-day road trip in Switzerland!
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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Basel. Begin your sightseeing with Basel Minster. This worthwhile church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Fine Arts Museum Basel, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Basel, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Tinguely Fountain. This beloved art installation is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basel Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bern. Bern 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 Bern. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bern by reserving a table at ZOE. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Steinhalle, renowned for its delectable creative and international dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Wein & Sein, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Bern
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 42 min
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- bear pit
- St. Beatus Caves
- Titlis Cliff Walk
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On day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bern for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bern and Beatenberg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bern allows for both. Start by heading to Unesco - Bern Old Town. This worthwhile historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Bear Pit, a visually striking zoo, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, a frequently visited cave system. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Titlis Cliff Walk.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Volver BarTapasCafé, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Gourmanderie Moléson offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Ebrietas Bern is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Adrianos Bar & Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Les Amis / Wohnzimmer. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Say good night to Bern and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Bern
- Lausanne
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Drive 225 km, 2 hours 59 min
- Conservatory and Botanical garden Geneva
- Jardin Anglais
- The Flower Clock
- The Geneva Water Fountain
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Geneva. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lausanne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bern. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a park, an art installation, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Conservatory And Botanical Garden Of The City Of Geneva. This is a locally appreciated botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Jardin Anglais, an interesting park in Bern.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to L'horloge Fleurie. From there, take a leisurely stroll to The Geneva Water Fountain, another of the city’s notable attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lausanne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lausanne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Start your culinary exploration in Lausanne by securing a reservation at Le Berceau des Sens. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Anne-Sophie Pic, celebrated for its delectable creative 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 La Table du Lausanne Palace, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Captain Cook Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out King Size Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pin Up Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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.
Day 5
- Lausanne
- Zurich
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Drive 301 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Chillon Castle
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
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On day 5 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Lausanne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Chillon Castle. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Lion Monument Lucerne, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Chapel Bridge, one of the town’s most popular attractions, known for its enchanting features.
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.
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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Keep the evening going at Widder Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rio Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Zurich
- Basel
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Drive 153 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
- Rhine Falls
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Zurich and Neuhausen, 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.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the popular Lindenhof, an enchanting historical landmark in Zurich. Next, go to Zürich Zoo.
After visiting Lindenhof and Zürich Zoo, take time to explore Zurich's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rhine Falls. This mesmerizing waterfall offers a unique experience.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
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.
Discover the culinary delights of Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of classic french cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try roots, renowned for its delicious modern and seasonal dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Basel - Departure day
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- Freie Strasse
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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 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.
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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