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

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

To truly experience Bern, make sure to drop by Unesco - Bern Old Town. This frequently visited historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Zytglogge, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Bern Minster, one of the most underrated places to see in Bern. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Bear Pit. Wander around and soak in the idyllic atmosphere this zoo offers.

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.

Basel 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 Basel.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl in Basel by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious classic french cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at roots, acclaimed for its delectable modern and seasonal specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Schall Und Rauch Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Grenzwert Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 8 Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Basel. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night.

Middle Bridge leaves a lasting impression. This historical landmark is one of the most beloved places to visit in Basel. Next, head to Basel Minster, a locally appreciated church, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Tinguely Fountain. This detailed art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Basel Zoo Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Essential by Dorint Basel City, an iconic dining spot in Basel. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hasenburg, a popular restaurant in Basel. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Smilla Café, a hidden gem nestled in Basel. 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 Consum, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, L'atelier offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Riehen, Neuhausen, and Schaffhausen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in Basel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Riehen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Riehen, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Beyeler Foundation. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the art gallery before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Riehen and set your GPS to Neuhausen. 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 1 hour 29 min. Upon reaching Neuhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rhine Falls and explore the romantic features.

When you’ve had your share of Neuhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Schaffhausen. Your travel time is around 10 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Museum Zu Allerheiligen, an up-and-coming museum known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Waldfriedhof Schaffhausen, an underrated cemetery.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delectable sharing and modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore The Restaurant, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Widder Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rio Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Day 5 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy all that Zürich Zoo has to offer. This is a popular zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Grossmünster, a locally appreciated church in Zurich.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lindenhof. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Swiss National Museum, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cantinetta Antinori, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Lokal is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Aurora. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Eldorado. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gotthard Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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 1 place, which are Lucerne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern, where will spend 1 night.

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 45 min. Upon your arrival in Lucerne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Lion Monument Lucerne and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Swiss Museum Of Transport, another highlight in Lucerne. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Chapel Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lucerne is Titlis Cliff Walk, a well-known canopy walk that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bern. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at ZOE, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible vegetarian and modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Steinhalle is one of the best restaurants for creative and international cuisine in Bern. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Wein & Sein. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ebrietas Bern stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Adrianos Bar & Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Les Amis / Wohnzimmer is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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