One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Bern to Basel and Lucerne and surrounding area

Welcome to Bern, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Bern's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bern 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 Rose Garden Bern 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 Bern. 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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Steinhalle, famous for its scrumptious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wein & Sein, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Bern. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Adrianos Bar & Café, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bern has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Bern by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Kick off the day at Zytglogge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This astronomical clock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,374 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit UNESCO - Bern Old Town. UNESCO - Bern Old Town is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 reviews.

Bern Minster is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,813 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit bear pit. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Bern has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Bern offers and add your favorites to your Switzerland travel package below.

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

Make sure to book a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, a popular restaurant in Bern. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bern at Aarbergerhof, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Hotel Bellevue Palace. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bern tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Geneva, 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 Geneva to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Geneva. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The Geneva Water Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,281 reviews.

Continue your journey at Jardin Anglais. This urban park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,129 travelers from near and far.

Geneva is also the home of L'horloge fleurie. This floral clock has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,614 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Bains des Pâquis. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,194 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Broken Chair. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,465 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this sightseeing destination.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bern and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Bern, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Bowling Company AG offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Noa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bern.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Wildegg, Lenzburg, 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 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bern, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Wildegg may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Wildegg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Wildegg Castle. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,563 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lenzburg. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Lenzburg castle. This extraordinary architectural structure has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,750 visitors.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Basel by securing a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. Esteemed as a 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.

Keep the evening going at Schall und Rauch Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Basel, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Journey into the unknown at Basel Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 reviews. Every year, Basel Zoo welcomes more than 2,012,511 curious visitors.

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 middle bridge. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,025 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Basel offers an experience you will remember.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Basel, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Riehen. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Beyeler Foundation. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,303 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 332,000 travelers every year.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Basel.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider KLARA 13 AG, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zurich. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Basel and set your GPS to Zurich. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Zurich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Zürich Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,267 visitors.

Grossmünster is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This church building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 travelers.

Zurich is also the home of Lindenhof. Around 11,365 people have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Swiss National Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 8,085 reviews, a visit to this organization is a great idea.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lucerne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Lucerne by securing a reservation at Lucide. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of contemporary and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Colonnade, renowned for its delicious modern french and seasonal dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Also, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lucerne tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar 59, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar 58, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café Tacuba Neustadt provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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 in Switzerland.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lucerne, Innertkirchen, and Lammi, 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 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Chapel Bridge, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,995 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,294 travelers.

Swiss Museum of Transport is another must-visit attraction. This renowned technology museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 travelers and attracting 562,605 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you arrive in Innertkirchen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Titlis Cliff Walk. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,537 visitors.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Casino Bern, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorante Verdi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ristorante Azzurro Terra e Mare. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

Day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bern before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Switzerland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Bern’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Switzerland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Switzerland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bundesplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,059 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Rosengarten, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Entrecôte Fédérale offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bern. 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!