One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern

1 / 60
Photo of riverside of Rhine in Basel dominated by majestic building of Munster church, Switzerland.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in Switzerland! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Basel, Neuhausen, Winterthur, Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Switzerland. You will spend 3 nights in Basel, 2 nights in Zurich, 1 night in Lucerne, and 1 night in Bern. 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 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Neuhausen, Winterthur, Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern, 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, accommodations, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Basel

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Basel - Arrival day
  • More
  • Mittlere Brücke
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Basel, 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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Basel. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Cargo Kultur Bar, 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 KOHLMANNS, 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 tibits, 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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Schall Und Rauch Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Grenzwert Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 8 Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Basel
  • More

Drive 5 km, 39 min

  • Basel Minster
  • Fine Arts Museum Basel
  • Tinguely Fountain
  • Zoo Basel
  • More

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Basel. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Let Basel Minster set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this visually striking church before continuing your journey. Fine Arts Museum Basel is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Basel.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Tinguely Fountain. This picture-perfect art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Basel Zoo.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another dining option, venture to roots, celebrated for its delectable modern and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Consum, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, L'atelier offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Basel. Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Basel
  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 199 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Rhine Falls
  • Swiss Science Center Technorama
  • Wildpark Bruderhaus Winterthur
  • Üetliberg
  • Uetliberg Lookout Tower
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Neuhausen, Winterthur, and Sellenbüren. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Make time for Rhine Falls, a widely recognized waterfall that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Swiss Science Center Technorama, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Wildpark Bruderhaus. This wildlife reserve is one of the town’s most frequently visited 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 intriguing Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zurich. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 an outstanding dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zurich is The Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Widder Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Rio Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Zurich and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 1 km, 22 min

  • Lindenhof
  • Swiss National Museum
  • Old Town (Altstadt)
  • Bahnhofstrasse
  • Niederdorf
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Old Town (Altstadt) is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Zurich, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Bahnhofstrasse, a street that showcases another side of Zurich.

Lindenhof brings Zurich's character to life. This history-steeped historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Swiss National Museum, another heritage-rich attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

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.

Zurich 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 Zurich.

Dine in style at Cantinetta Antinori, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Lokal boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Aurora. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.

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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Zurich
  • Lucerne
  • More

Drive 62 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Grossmünster
  • Kunsthaus Zürich
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Zürich Zoo
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Zurich. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lucerne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Zurich is only getting started when you visit Grossmünster, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Kunsthaus Zürich. This up-and-coming art gallery is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zürich Opera House. This romantic opera house offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Zürich Zoo is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lucerne. Lucerne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Bar 58, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Penthouse 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!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Lucerne
  • Bern
  • More

Drive 118 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Chapel Bridge
  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Lucerne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 1 night.

Chapel Bridge is must-visit historical landmark and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a frequently visited historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne, a breathtaking monument, also available for your discovery today.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bern by booking a table at ZOE, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Bern, Steinhalle shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and international cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Wein & Sein is known as a top local spot in Bern for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Zum Kuckuck, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Piazza Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bern. Die Taube is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Bern
  • Basel
  • More

Drive 100 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • Zytglogge
  • bear pit
  • Rosengarten Bern
  • More

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bern. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Basel, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Unesco - Bern Old Town. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zytglogge located in Bern for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bear Pit. Its idyllic features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Rose Garden Bern. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this botanical garden.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Basel. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a top-rated dining spot in Basel. If you're in the mood for something new, try HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof). Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Basel.

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

Read more
Day8

Day 8

  • Basel - Departure day
  • More
  • Freie Strasse
  • More

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.

At the top of the list of places to visit today is Freie Strasse, a street that captures the true essence of Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Basel’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at KLARA 13 AG, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Warteck Brewery Basel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse 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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.