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

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Bern and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bern for 2 nights 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 Rose Garden Bern or 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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bern by booking a table at ZOE, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different culinary experience, Steinhalle shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious creative and international cuisine in Bern. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Wein & Sein is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Bern. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Adrianos Bar & Café, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bern has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bern by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to bear pit. This extraordinary architectural structure is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors.

Next, make your way to Bern Minster. This top attraction is a church building with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,813 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Zytglogge. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,374 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Bern on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Aarbergerhof, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Bellevue Palace. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Beatenberg, Harderkulm, Ballenberg, Innertkirchen, and Lammi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Beatenberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beatenberg beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see St. Beatus Caves. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,933 visitors.

Set your GPS to Harderkulm and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Harderkulm beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Harderkulm, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable mountain has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,635 reviews.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lucerne by reserving a table at Lucide. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Colonnade, renowned for its delectable modern french and seasonal dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. And don’t miss Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar 59, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar 58, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café Tacuba Neustadt likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Lucerne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

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

Next, make your way to Chapel Bridge. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Church of St. Leodegar. This church building is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,649 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Lion Monument Lucerne. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,294 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 travelers. It’s estimated that 562,605 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zurich, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

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 it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rio Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Stanza offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Zürich Zoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

Next up is Grossmünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Lindenhof. This square has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Swiss National Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This organization has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,085 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Zurich, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Zurich 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.

Dine in style at Aurora, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kafi Dihei boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Weisses Rössli. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Sellenbüren, Kloten, Winterthur, and Neuhausen, 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 Basel. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sellenbüren. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Uetliberg Lookout Tower. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,349 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sellenbüren, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kloten may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Kloten, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Observation Deck B, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,332 reviews.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of classic french cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try roots, renowned for its delicious modern and seasonal dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Schall und Rauch Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Basel. You have 1 night left in Basel. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basel Zoo, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,178 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 2,012,511 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Tinguely Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 travelers.

Gate of Spalen is another must-visit attraction. This renowned tower offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,475 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit University of Basel Botanical Garden. This well-loved botanical garden boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,078 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Kannenfeldpark awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 previous visitors.

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

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

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 1 vibrant destinations - Basel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is middle bridge. Previous visitors have rated this road bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,025 reviews.

Museum of Natural History Basel is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,084 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 reviews.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is another outstanding experience in Basel. Around 4,049 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Bowling Company AG, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Noa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Day 9 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.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bern’s best shopping location. 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bundesplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,059 reviews.

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

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

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!