9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Lucerne, Interlaken, and Montreux

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Photo of riverside of Rhine in Basel dominated by majestic building of Munster church, Switzerland.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 3 nights in Basel, 2 nights in Lucerne, 2 nights in Interlaken, and 1 night in Montreux. 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. Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument Lucerne are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chillon Castle, learn more about the unique Basel Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Swiss Museum Of Transport.

As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Lucerne, Goldau, Schwanden bei Brienz, Axalp, Interlaken, Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Beatenberg, Montreux, Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc, 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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Day 1

Day 1

  • Basel - Arrival day
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  • Mittlere Brücke
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Say hello to Basel! 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 Basel for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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

Dine in style at Cargo Kultur Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, KOHLMANNS boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out tibits. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Basel.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Basel
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Spalentorweg
  • Basel Minster
  • Kunsthalle Basel
  • Tinguely Fountain
  • Zoo Basel
  • Museum Tinguely
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Basel has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Basel.

Enjoy all that Gate Of Spalen has to offer. This is an up-and-coming historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Basel Minster, an intriguing church in Basel.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kunsthalle Basel. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Tinguely Fountain, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Basel Zoo, a stunning place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Museum Tinguely to your itinerary. This locally appreciated museum offers the perfect finishing touch to your 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hasenburg offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Smilla Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Basel.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Consum, known for its lively atmosphere. L'atelier is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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
  • Lucerne
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 55 min

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Lucerne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Swiss Museum Of Transport makes a great addition to your morning plans. This notable museum is a history-steeped place to see in Basel. Continue your discovery at Church Of St. Leodegar, a romantic church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Basel, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Bourbaki-panorama (building). This locally appreciated museum offers a photogenic encounter with Basel. Next, make your way to Lion Monument Lucerne to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Chapel Bridge, a well-known 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.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Valentino, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Weisses Schloss offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bolero. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar 58, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Penthouse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lucerne
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Drive 95 km, 1 hour 44 min

  • Nature and Animal Park Goldau
  • Männliturm
  • Nölliturm
  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Lucerne Needle Dam
  • Mount Pilatus
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lucerne, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Goldau and Lucerne.

To truly experience Lucerne, make sure to drop by Nature And Animal Park Goldau. This intriguing zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Männliturm, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Nölliturm, one of the most intriguing places to see in Lucerne. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Then, head to Lucerne Needle Dam, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the up-and-coming Mount Pilatus, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ampersand, an iconic dining spot in Lucerne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Lucerne
  • Interlaken
  • More

Drive 78 km, 1 hour 37 min

  • Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
  • Giessbach Waterfalls
  • Lake Brienz
  • Statue Of Yash Chopra
  • Höhematte
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Schwanden bei Brienz, Axalp, and Interlaken are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Interlaken, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Your adventure in Lucerne is only getting started when you visit Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Giessbach Waterfalls. This often recommended waterfall is known for its gorgeous appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lucerne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Lake Brienz. This serene lake offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Yash Chopra Statue is also worth visiting, along with Höhematte Interlaken. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Interlaken. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top-rated dining destination in Interlaken. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Palace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OX Restaurant & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Interlaken this evening.

Keep the evening going at Brasserie 17, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Interlaken
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Drive 71 km, 1 hour 48 min

  • Trümmelbach Falls
  • Staubbach Falls
  • Harderkulm
  • St. Beatus Caves
  • Lake Thun
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Interlaken, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Check out the locally appreciated waterfall, Trümmelbach Falls. Afterward, continue to Staubbachfall Waterfall, a waterfall every traveler should visit. As you explore Interlaken’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Harderkulm. This underrated observation deck is an essential stop. Following that, head to St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Lake Thun, an increasingly popular lake in the village.

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

Interlaken 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 Interlaken.

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

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Interlaken
  • Montreux
  • More

Drive 171 km, 2 hours 38 min

  • Rochers de Naye
  • Chillon Castle
  • Promenade sur les quais de Montreux
  • Freddie Mercury statue
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Montreux. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Montreux, where you'll spend 1 night.

Rochers De Naye is an ideal stop early in the day. This often recommended mountain range is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Chillon Castle, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Interlaken on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux, a worthwhile boardwalk in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Freddie Mercury Statue.

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

Montreux 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 Montreux.

Enjoy a lovely meal at MONTREUX JAZZ CAFE, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Corsa Al Cilento is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Rando Burger Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Montreux tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Riva Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Funky Claude's Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Montreux
  • Basel
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 3 min

  • La Maison du Gruyère
  • HR Giger Museum
  • Castle of the counts of Gruyères
  • Gorges de la Jogne
  • More

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Basel, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

To truly experience Montreux, make sure to drop by La Maison Du Gruyère. This underrated museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Hr Giger Museum, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Château De Gruyères, one of the most well-known places to see in Montreux. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Gorges De La Jogne. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this canyon offers.

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

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

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Basel - Departure day
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  • Freie Strasse
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Day 9 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Freie Strasse, a street that you shouldn't miss while in Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Basel’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.

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

Dine in style at KLARA 13 AG, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Warteck Brewery Basel boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!

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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.
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.

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

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