9-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling east to Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich

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 1 night 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 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at tibits, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Essential by Dorint Basel City, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Les Trois Rois. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Schall und Rauch Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

On day 2 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bern. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basel Minster, head to Fine Arts Museum Basel. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,049 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Tinguely Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,117 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Basel Zoo. This zoo is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 visitors. Around 2,012,511 travelers visit Basel Zoo every year.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, 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 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.

Make sure to book a table at Brasserie Obstberg, a popular restaurant in Bern. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Bern at Süder, 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 Volver BarTapasCafé. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bern tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Adrianos Bar & Café offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bern. You’ll stay in Bern for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Bern Minster your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,813 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at UNESCO - Bern Old Town. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Bear pit is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors.

When you’re finished at bear pit, the perfect next stop is Rose Garden Bern. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,381 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Switzerland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Bern has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Switzerland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Aarbergerhof? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Bellevue Palace as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bern.

Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Beatenberg, Ballenberg, Harderkulm, Lammi, and Innertkirchen, 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 Lucerne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beatenberg. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at St. Beatus Caves, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,933 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ballenberg. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,858 reviews.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lucerne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Bolero, 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 Ampersand, 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 Mr. Pickwick Pub 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar 59, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar 58 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lucerne. Café Tacuba Neustadt is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 5 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 Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Zurich, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lucerne to Zurich may take around 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zurich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This wooden bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,066 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Chapel Bridge. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Church of St. Leodegar. This church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,649 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,294 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 visitors. Approximately 562,605 travelers visit Swiss Museum of Transport every year.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Babu's, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cantinetta Antinori beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider El Lokal. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Rio Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Stanza, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

Day 6 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.

Drop by the renowned Botanical Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,198 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Chinagarten Zürich. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Zürich Opera House. This opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,213 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Arboretum Zürich. This arboretum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,796 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Zürich Zoo. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,267 travelers, this zoo is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Zurich.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Aurora, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, 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 Weisses Rössli. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zurich tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ebrietas Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Rimini Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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.

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Swiss National Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,085 visitors.

Lindenhof is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 travelers.

Zurich is also the home of Grossmünster. Around 8,297 people have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Kunsthaus Zürich, which hosts up to 382,603 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 6,594 reviews, a visit to this art museum is a great idea.

Your discoveries in Zurich do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Zurich on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Viadukt, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Metropol. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Neuhausen, Sellenbüren, Winterthur, and Kloten. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Winterthur’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Neuhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Neuhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rhine Falls. This extraordinary waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 70,505 visitors.

After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sellenbüren. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Sellenbüren, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Üetliberg. This mountain is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sellenbüren, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,065 visitors.

Uetliberg Lookout Tower is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,349 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try KLARA 13 AG? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Basel.

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

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.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Basel’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Switzerland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Switzerland alive with these special souvenirs.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Unternehmen Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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!