7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne and Basel

Day 2 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.

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 Niederdorf, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Chinagarten Zürich, an often recommended botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lindenhof, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Zürich Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most popular spots.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Zurich's bustling shopping hub, Bahnhofstrasse. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Bahnhofstrasse offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Zurich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lucerne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zurich, including a museum, an art gallery, a church, an opera house and much more! Start your day with a visit to Swiss National Museum. This often recommended museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kunsthaus Zürich, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zurich on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Grossmünster, an increasingly popular church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Zürich Opera House.

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

As you explore more of Lucerne, 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 Lucide, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible contemporary and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Colonnade is one of the best restaurants for modern french and seasonal cuisine in Lucerne. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar 58. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Penthouse, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lucerne, 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 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Lucerne includes a historical landmark, a monument, and a museum. Chapel Bridge is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an up-and-coming historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne, a visually striking monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Lucerne. If you’re looking for more, Swiss Museum Of Transport is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Basel by securing a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional classic french menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit roots, famous for its scrumptious modern and seasonal dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Basel. 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Schall Und Rauch Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Grenzwert Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. 8 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Basel for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the interesting Basel Zoo, an awe-inspiring zoo in Basel. Next, go to Tinguely Fountain.

After visiting Basel Zoo and Tinguely Fountain, take time to explore Basel's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basel Minster. This enchanting church offers a unique experience. Middle Bridge is another noteworthy stop.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hasenburg offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Smilla Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Basel.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Consum, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, L'atelier is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Neuhausen, Winterthur, and Sellenbüren. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Basel is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Rhine Falls, a spectacular waterfall that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Swiss Science Center Technorama, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Wildpark Bruderhaus. This wildlife reserve is one of the town’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Basel at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Üetliberg. After exploring the mountain range, head to the curiosity-inducing Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich. This observation deck will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alpenrose, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kafi Dihei offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Weisses Rössli. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Babalu after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nelson is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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