7-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling south to Geneva, Bern, and Zurich

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 immersing yourself in Basel's charm 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 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Schall und Rauch Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Basel, 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 Geneva. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Geneva’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 52 min. Geneva welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,442 visitors.

Tinguely Fountain is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 visitors.

Basel Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 2,012,511 people visit this top attraction every year. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 visitors.

Kannenfeldpark is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,501 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Geneva. Geneva 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 Geneva.

Have a memorable dining experience in Geneva by booking a table at Tosca, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional tuscan menu. For a different culinary experience, L'Atelier Robuchon shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious french contemporary cuisine in Geneva. 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, Il Lago is known as a top local spot for its delicious italian and mediterranean cuisine in Geneva. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Roi Ubu stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Bateau-Lavoir offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mulligans Irish Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 3 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 Geneva. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bern, 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 Geneva to Bern may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bern, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is L'horloge fleurie. This floral clock is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,614 reviews.

Continue your journey at Jardin Anglais. This urban park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,129 travelers from near and far.

Geneva is also the home of The Geneva Water Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,281 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Bains des Pâquis. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,194 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,702 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this botanical garden.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, ZOE delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious vegetarian and modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Steinhalle, acclaimed for its delectable creative and international specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Wein & Sein, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Adrianos Bar & Café, known for its lively atmosphere.

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.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, UNESCO - Bern Old Town is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is bear pit. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 travelers.

Lavey-Morcles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veytaux behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Lavey-Morcles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Les Bains de Lavey. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,702 visitors.

Veytaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bern behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Veytaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Chillon Castle. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,331 reviews.

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

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, a top-rated dining spot in Bern. If you're in the mood for something new, try Aarbergerhof, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Bellevue Palace. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bern.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Lucerne and Innertkirchen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Lucerne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Zurich. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Zurich, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Swiss Museum of Transport, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable technology museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 reviews. Every year, Swiss Museum of Transport welcomes more than 562,605 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Lion Monument Lucerne is a recommended place to visit. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Lucerne is Chapel Bridge. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Lucerne offers an experience you will remember.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Innertkirchen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Innertkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Titlis Cliff Walk, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,537 reviews.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zurich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Neuhausen and Zurich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Basel, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rhine Falls. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

Neuhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zurich behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Neuhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lindenhof. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Zurich, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 visitors.

Grossmünster is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Zürich Zoo. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Basel. Basel 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Basel's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, KLARA 13 AG offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Basel.

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

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.

As you approach the end of your journey in Switzerland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Basel’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Switzerland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Switzerland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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!