One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Bern, Sion, and Zurich
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 Sion, and 2 nights 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 Basel Zoo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Bern, Gruyères, Pringy, Beatenberg, Interlaken, Sion, Lucerne, Zurich, Kloten, Winterthur, 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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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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cargo Kultur Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? KOHLMANNS offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss tibits. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.
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 8-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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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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in Basel. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, an art installation, a zoo and much more! Begin your adventure at Basel Minster. This is a worthwhile church you should not miss. Another must-see is Fine Arts Museum Basel, an intriguing museum in Basel.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Tinguely Fountain. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Basel Zoo, another of the city’s notable attractions.
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 Bern. Bern 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.
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.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Zum Kuckuck after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Piazza Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Taube is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Bern and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Bern
- Gruyères
- Pringy
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Drive 138 km, 2 hours 17 min
- bear pit
- Rosengarten Bern
- Castle of the counts of Gruyères
- La Maison du Gruyère
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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, Gruyères, and Pringy to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bern today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Bear Pit. This enchanting zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rose Garden Bern and learn what makes this eye-catching botanical garden unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
After soaking in Bern’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gruyères. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Gruyères, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Château De Gruyères, a notable castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pringy, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bern. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at La Maison Du Gruyère and explore the eye-catching features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bern and your accommodation.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gourmanderie Moléson is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bern tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ebrietas Bern after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Adrianos Bar & Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.
Day 4
- Bern
- Beatenberg
- Interlaken
- Sion
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Drive 320 km, 4 hours 21 min
- St. Beatus Caves
- Harderkulm
- Statue Of Yash Chopra
- Höhematte
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Beatenberg, Harderkulm, and Interlaken. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sion, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beatenberg. This car ride takes around 49 min.
Take your self-guided tour to St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, a worthwhile cave system that everyone visiting Beatenberg should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
After soaking in Beatenberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Harderkulm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Harderkulm, it's time to take a break from the road.
Take your self-guided tour to Harderkulm, an underrated observation deck that everyone visiting Harderkulm should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Set your GPS to Interlaken and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Interlaken beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Yash Chopra Statue, an increasingly popular monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Höhematte Interlaken, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sion. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Sion, 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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Damien Germanier in Sion by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Damien Germanier offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Quat'Sous offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Brésilien, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Boléro is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Dugout Sports Bar 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
- Sion
- Lucerne
- Zurich
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Drive 322 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
- Spreuerbrücke
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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 2 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lucerne allows for both.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lucerne, 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 Sion to Lucerne may take around 2 hours 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Swiss Museum Of Transport. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This well-known monument is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Chapel Bridge. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, continue your journey to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a locally appreciated historical landmark.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.
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.
Continue your lively evening at Widder Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Zurich
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Drive 8 km, 41 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Grossmünster
- Lindenhof
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zurich, including a zoo, an art gallery, a church, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Zürich Zoo. This well-known zoo 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 photogenic 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, one of the city’s most beloved church. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Lindenhof.
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.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cantinetta Antinori, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Lokal, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aurora. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Eldorado, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gotthard Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at La Stanza, another top-rated place in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.
Day 7
- Zurich
- Kloten
- Winterthur
- Basel
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Üetliberg
- Uetliberg Lookout Tower
- Observation Deck B
- Swiss Science Center Technorama
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Sellenbüren, Kloten, Winterthur, and Neuhausen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sellenbüren. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Sellenbüren, it's time to take a break from the road.
Üetliberg is a frequently visited mountain range we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, a romantic observation deck that’s well-regarded in the area.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kloten, 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 Sellenbüren to Kloten may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kloten, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Observation Deck B. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kloten, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Winterthur. This drive usually takes around 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Swiss Science Center Technorama and explore the picture-perfect features.
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 Basel. Basel 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.
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.
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 Consum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to L'atelier, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & 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!
Day 8
- Basel - Departure day
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- Spalentorweg
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Day 8 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.
On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Basel’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Start your day with a visit to Gate Of Spalen. This often recommended historical landmark is a must-visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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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