One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling east to Lucerne and Zurich

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Basel for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional classic french menu. For a different culinary experience, roots shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. 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, Stucki - Tanja Grandits is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Schall und Rauch Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Basel. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Museum of Natural History Basel, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,084 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Basel Minster is a recommended place to visit. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Basel is Fine Arts Museum Basel. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,049 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Basel offers an experience you will remember.

Museum Tinguely is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Basel. This art museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,311 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Basel, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Basel below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Basel's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, 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 KLARA 13 AG, 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 Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel, a hidden gem nestled in Basel. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Say good night to Basel and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Basel and Goldau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Gate of Spalen is a great place to start. This tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,475 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Kannenfeldpark. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,501 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Basel Zoo. This site gets more than 2,012,511 visitors annually. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 visitors.

Goldau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Goldau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Nature and Animal Park Goldau one of your first sightseeing stops in Goldau. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,104 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, 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 Lucerne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Begin your culinary exploration in Lucerne by securing a reservation at Lucide. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Colonnade, celebrated for its delectable modern french and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Also, be sure to check out Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar 59, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar 58 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Tacuba Neustadt. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Head back to your accommodation in Lucerne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This wooden bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lucerne, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,066 visitors.

Chapel Bridge is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Church of St. Leodegar. Visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,649 reviews.

Lion Monument Lucerne is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sculpture rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Swiss Museum of Transport, perhaps the most famous technology museum in Lucerne. This attraction welcomes around 562,605 visitors annually and is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 travelers.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. 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, The Restaurant is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rio Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Stanza offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Lindenhof one of your first sightseeing stops in Zurich. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Grossmünster is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,594 visitors. Up to 382,603 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Zürich Zoo. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 26,267 previous visitors.

You can learn more about Zurich today by going on a tour. Zurich offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Aurora, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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 Ebrietas Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rimini Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Day 6 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.

Take the opportunity to see Swiss National Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,085 visitors.

FIFA Museum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,338 travelers.

Zurich is also the home of Zürich Opera House. Around 6,213 people have rated this opera house an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Chinagarten Zürich. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 5,420 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zurich is also your chance to admire Botanical Garden. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,198 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Switzerland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Zurich has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Switzerland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As you explore more of Zurich, 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.

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

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Sellenbüren, Winterthur, 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sellenbüren. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Üetliberg, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,065 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Uetliberg Lookout Tower. Uetliberg Lookout Tower is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,349 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sellenbüren, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Winterthur. This drive usually takes around 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Wildpark Bruderhaus, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable wildlife park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,573 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Swiss Science Center Technorama is a recommended place to visit. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,644 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Basel, 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Unternehmen Mitte offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss WERK 8. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.

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

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.

Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Basel’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Switzerland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Switzerland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Tinguely Fountain. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 visitors.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Flanagan's, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!