Relaxed 9-Day Switzerland Road Trip Starting from Basel to Zurich

Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Basel, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Basel and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

Kick off the day at middle bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,025 reviews.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Basel.

Start your culinary exploration in Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit roots, celebrated for its delectable modern and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Basel. The bars in Basel make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Schall und Rauch Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Basel as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Basel Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 visitors. Each year, around 2,012,511 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Fine Arts Museum Basel. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,049 reviews.

While in Basel, we also recommend a visit to Wettsteinbrücke. This road bridge has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 942 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Dreiländereck. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,756 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Basel.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Basel, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Switzerland.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Basel, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, KLARA 13 AG beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Basel tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Basel. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Basel!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Basel, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Basel, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Gate of Spalen. This tower is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Basel, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,475 visitors.

University of Basel Botanical Garden is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,078 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Museum of Natural History Basel. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,084 reviews.

Basel Minster is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a cathedral rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform, perhaps the most famous sightseeing destination in Basel. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 749 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Basel by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Unternehmen Mitte offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss WERK 8. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Basel and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Switzerland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Switzerland.

Zurich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Zurich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Grand Casino Basel. Previous visitors have rated this casino an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,772 reviews.

Kannenfeldpark is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,501 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is St. Alban. This quarter of the city of basel, switzerland is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 413 reviews.

Basel Paper Mill is another outstanding experience in Basel. Around 1,409 travelers have rated this paper museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Museum Tinguely is not far away. This art museum is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,311 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Zurich. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Switzerland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Zurich, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. Esteemed as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. 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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rio Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Stanza for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Switzerland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Switzerland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zurich!

Kick off the day at Zürich Zoo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Arboretum Zürich. Arboretum Zürich is an arboretum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,796 reviews.

FIFA Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,338 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Swiss National Museum. This organization is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,085 visitors.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Switzerland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Zurich, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Aurora, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kafi Dihei? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Weisses Rössli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zurich.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ebrietas Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rimini Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Switzerland.

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to see Zürich Opera House. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,213 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 Fraumünster. Around 3,411 people have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Lindenhof. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 11,365 reviews, a visit to this square is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zurich is also your chance to admire MFO-Park. This must-visit urban park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,428 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Switzerland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zurich has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Switzerland.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zurich, and meet locals along the way!

When you're ready to see some sights, Botanical Garden is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,198 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Zürichhorn. This river delta has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,512 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Chinagarten Zürich. The park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Kronenhalle. This architectural structure is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,764 reviews.

Kunsthaus Zürich is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this art museum, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,594 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique. This attraction gets 382,603 visitors every year.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 7 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Switzerland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Zurich itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring the food culture in Zurich offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Oliver Twist, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar ODEON, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tibits. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zurich.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Switzerland.

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Switzerland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Switzerland.

Set your GPS to Lucerne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucerne beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Church of St. Leodegar. This church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,649 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 visitors. Up to 562,605 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This wooden bridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,066 visitors.

In the city of Basel, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Switzerland.

Exploring the food culture in Basel offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Basel. The bars in Basel make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Basel.

As you approach the end of your journey in Switzerland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Basel’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.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Basel or just grab something light to keep you going.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Schlüsselzunft, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Basel and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.