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

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Switzerland. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Switzerland. 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 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.

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, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Bern - Arrival day
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  • fountain of justice
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Say hello to Bern! Your exciting road trip through Switzerland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bern for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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. 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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bern. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Dine in style at Brasserie Obstberg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Süder boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Leichtsinn. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bern.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Zum Kuckuck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Piazza Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Taube, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bern
  • Basel
  • More

Drive 100 km, 1 hour 38 min

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

On day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bern are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the beloved Unesco - Bern Old Town, an enchanting historical landmark in Bern. Next, go to Zytglogge.

After visiting Unesco - Bern Old Town and Zytglogge, have a stroll along Bern's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bear Pit. This stunning zoo offers a unique experience. Rose Garden Bern is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Basel by reserving a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional classic french menu. For a different taste experience, head to roots, recognized for its delicious modern and seasonal dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Basel. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Schall Und Rauch Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Grenzwert Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 8 Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

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Day3

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 discover what to see in Basel. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night.

Basel Zoo makes a great addition to your morning plans. This interesting zoo is an awe-inspiring place to see in Basel. Continue your discovery at Tinguely Fountain, a detailed art installation with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Basel, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Gate Of Spalen. This locally appreciated historical landmark offers a breathtaking encounter with Basel. Next, make your way to Kannenfeldpark to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Middle Bridge, an increasingly popular historical landmark that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Basel.

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.

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

Dine in style at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hasenburg boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Smilla Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Basel.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Consum, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out L'atelier, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Basel
  • Riehen
  • 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

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 2 places, which are Basel and Riehen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich, where will spend 3 nights.

Make a stop at Museum Of Natural History Basel. This up-and-coming museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Basel Minster located in Basel for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Fine Arts Museum Basel. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Riehen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Basel to Riehen may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Riehen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Beyeler Foundation, a locally appreciated art gallery known for its breathtaking features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. 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 delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Widder Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rio Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day5

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

Awaiting your discovery is the up-and-coming Botanical Garden, an eye-catching botanical garden in Zurich. Next, go to Chinagarten Zürich.

After visiting Botanical Garden and Chinagarten Zürich, have a stroll along Zurich's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zürich Opera House. This picture-perfect opera house offers a unique experience. Kunsthaus Zürich is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Swiss National Museum, one of the most heritage-rich places to visit in Zurich.

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.

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 Zurich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cantinetta Antinori, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, El Lokal offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Aurora is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Zurich.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Zurich
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Drive 9 km, 38 min

  • Zürich Zoo
  • Grossmünster
  • Fraumünster Church
  • Lindenhof
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Zurich is brimming with adventures.

No visit to Zurich is complete without Zürich Zoo. This popular zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Grossmünster, another must-visit attraction.

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 Fraumünster. This worthwhile church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Lindenhof, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alpenrose, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Weisses Rössli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

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

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Zurich
  • Lucerne
  • Bern
  • More

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, including Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bern, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Zurich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lucerne. Your travel time is around 46 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Swiss Museum Of Transport, an interesting museum that everyone visiting Lucerne should see. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This remarkable monument is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Church Of St. Leodegar, a history-steeped church popular among locals as well as travelers. Chapel Bridge is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this interesting historical landmark before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a romantic historical landmark and a top attraction in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bern. 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 Bern. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, ZOE delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious vegetarian and modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Steinhalle, acclaimed for its delectable creative and international specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Wein & Sein, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Ebrietas Bern, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Adrianos Bar & Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day8

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, we recommend visiting Bundesplatz, a heritage-rich public square before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Bern’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.

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

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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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.
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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.

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

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