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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bern, Basel, Riehen, Zurich, and Lucerne.

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 Bern, 2 nights in Basel, and 3 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 Bern, 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. Chapel Bridge and Zürich Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lion Monument Lucerne, learn more about the unique Basel Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bear Pit.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Basel, Riehen, Zurich, and Lucerne, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
fountain of justice
UNESCO - Bern Old TownZytgloggebear pitRosengarten Bern
Zoo BaselTinguely FountainSpalentorwegKannenfeld ParkMittlere Brücke
Museum of Natural History BaselBasel MinsterFine Arts Museum BaselBeyeler Foundation
Botanical GardenChinagarten ZürichZürich Opera HouseKunsthaus ZürichSwiss National Museum
Zürich ZooGrossmünsterFraumünster ChurchLindenhof
Swiss Museum of TransportLion Monument LucerneHofkirche St. LeodegarChapel BridgeSpreuerbrücke
Bundesplatz

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bern - Arrival day
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  • fountain of justice
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Bern and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bern for 1 night 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.

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 Fountain Of Justice, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Zum Kuckuck, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Piazza Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Taube provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bern
  • Basel
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Drive 100 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • Zytglogge
  • bear pit
  • Rosengarten Bern
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bern. 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.

Bern is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a zoo, and a botanical garden. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Unesco - Bern Old Town. Just a short distance away is Zytglogge, a historic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Bear Pit, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Rose Garden Bern.

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.

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, roots is one of the best restaurants for modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Schall Und Rauch Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grenzwert Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 8 Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Basel
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Drive 6 km, 1 hour 10 min

  • Zoo Basel
  • Tinguely Fountain
  • Spalentorweg
  • Kannenfeld Park
  • Mittlere Brücke
  • More

On day 3 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Basel. Your adventure starts at Basel Zoo, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Tinguely Fountain. This beloved art installation is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Basel's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Gate Of Spalen. This culturally significant historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Kannenfeldpark is also worth visiting, along with Middle Bridge. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Essential by Dorint Basel City, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hasenburg? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Smilla Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Basel.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Consum, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, L'atelier offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Basel
  • Zurich
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Drive 94 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Museum of Natural History Basel
  • Basel Minster
  • Fine Arts Museum Basel
  • Beyeler Foundation
  • More

On day 4 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 Basel and Riehen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 3 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Basel on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended museum, Museum Of Natural History Basel. Afterward, continue to Basel Minster, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Basel’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Fine Arts Museum Basel. This underrated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Beyeler Foundation, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Widder Restaurant in Zurich by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Widder Restaurant offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing sharing and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Restaurant, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Widder Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rio Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zurich
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Botanical Garden
  • Chinagarten Zürich
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Kunsthaus Zürich
  • Swiss National Museum
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Zurich. Begin your sightseeing with Botanical Garden. This often recommended botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Chinagarten Zürich, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zurich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zürich Opera House. This locally appreciated opera house is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Kunsthaus Zürich, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Swiss National Museum and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most frequently visited attractions.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cantinetta Antinori, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Lokal, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aurora. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eldorado, known for its lively atmosphere. Gotthard Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Stanza offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zurich
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Drive 9 km, 38 min

  • Zürich Zoo
  • Grossmünster
  • Fraumünster Church
  • Lindenhof
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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.

Today’s itinerary in Zurich covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a church, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Zürich Zoo. This interesting zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the majestic wonders of Grossmünster, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Fraumünster. This often recommended church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Lindenhof, where you can take in history-steeped features.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Alpenrose, 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Babalu, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Nelson likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Zurich
  • Bern
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 37 min

  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Hofkirche St. Leodegar
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Spreuerbrücke
  • More

On day 7 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 Bern, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Swiss Museum Of Transport, a popular museum in the town. Then, head to Lion Monument Lucerne and soak in the ambiance of this detailed monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Zurich and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of St. Leodegar. This is one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots. After exploring the church, visit the popular Chapel Bridge. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the underrated Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an underrated historical landmark 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 Bern. Bern offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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.

Keep the evening going at Ebrietas Bern, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Adrianos Bar & Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Les Amis / Wohnzimmer, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bern - Departure day
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  • Bundesplatz
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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 Bern before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Bundesplatz. This intriguing public square is a popular place to see in the city.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bern's best shopping area, Bern's Old City. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Switzerland. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

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

Savor the flavors at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kesar beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!

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