Relaxed 9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Basel
Description
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Description
Explore Switzerland and discover its unique charm on this 9-day relaxed road trip through Zurich, Lucerne, Basel, Riehen, and Neuhausen. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Switzerland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Zurich, Lucerne, Basel, Riehen, and Neuhausen. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Zurich and 3 nights in Basel. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Switzerland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Zurich, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Switzerland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Switzerland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Switzerland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rhine Falls. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chapel Bridge.
Traveling leisurely through Switzerland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Zürich Zoo. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Lion Monument Lucerne. Get close to the spectacular Basel Zoo and the wonderful Swiss Museum Of Transport. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Switzerland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Switzerland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Switzerland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Switzerland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Switzerland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Switzerland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Switzerland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Switzerland today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Zurich - Arrival day
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- Bahnhofstrasse
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Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Zurich, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Zurich and begin your adventure in Switzerland.
Zurich 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 Bahnhofstrasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. 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.
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.
Dine in style at Restaurant Differente, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, zum Kropf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Babu's. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zurich and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Widder Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rio Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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 Zurich as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Zurich
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Drive 4 km, 45 min
- FIFA Museum
- Lindenhof
- Swiss National Museum
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Niederdorf
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Make sure to visit Old Town (Altstadt), a popular neighborhood in Zurich. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Niederdorf today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.
Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a museum and a historical landmark. Fifa Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lindenhof, a locally renowned historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Swiss National Museum, an instagrammable museum, also available for your discovery today.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zurich. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zurich that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zurich to find the best options for you!
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.
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.
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 Zurich. The bars in Zurich make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Eldorado, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gotthard Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Stanza is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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 3
- Zurich
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Drive 10 km, 40 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Kronenhalle
- Zürich Opera House
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!
Zurich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a zoo, an art gallery, a restaurant, an opera house and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Zürich Zoo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Kunsthaus Zürich, a picture-perfect art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Kronenhalle, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Zürich Opera House.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zurich offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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.
Dine in style at Alpenrose, 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.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zurich and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
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.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zurich as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Zurich
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Drive 9 km, 47 min
- Arboretum Zürich
- Fraumünster Church
- Grossmünster
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Zürichhorn
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zurich!
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Zurich. Your adventure starts at Arboretum Zürich, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Fraumünster. This often recommended church is known for its idyllic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Grossmünster. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Chinagarten Zürich is also worth visiting, along with Zürichhorn. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
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.
Enjoy a delicious 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 Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ebrietas Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Total Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Rimini Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Zurich
- Basel
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
- Spreuerbrücke
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On day 5 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.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Zurich, including a museum, a monument, and a historical landmark. Start your day at Swiss Museum Of Transport. This instagrammable museum is a captivating place to see in Zurich. Then, wander over to Lion Monument Lucerne. If culturally significant sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Chapel Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.
Zurich offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne is a beloved spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Basel. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Basel has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Begin your culinary exploration in Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star 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.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Schall Und Rauch Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grenzwert Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 8 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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 6
- Basel
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Drive 7 km, 56 min
- Zoo Basel
- Tinguely Fountain
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
- Basel Paper Mill
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Basel, including a zoo, an art installation, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Basel Zoo. This notable zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tinguely Fountain, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Basel 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 Fine Arts Museum Basel, a worthwhile museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Basel Paper Mill.
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.
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 Basel, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Savor the flavors at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hasenburg beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Smilla Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Basel tonight.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
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.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Basel!
Day 7
- Basel
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Drive 2 km, 36 min
- Spalentorweg
- University of Basel Botanical Garden
- Mittlere Brücke
- Museum of Natural History Basel
- Basel Minster
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On day 7 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!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Basel, including a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a museum, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Gate Of Spalen. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to University Of Basel Botanical Garden located in Basel for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Middle Bridge. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Museum Of Natural History Basel. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this museum. Next up is Basel Minster, a highly recommended church.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Basel. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Basel that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Basel to find the best options for you!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Basel has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Les Trois Rois, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof). With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.
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.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Switzerland.
Day 8
- Basel
- Zurich
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Drive 154 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Beyeler Foundation
- Rhine Falls
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Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Switzerland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Riehen and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Neuhausen and the city of Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the underrated Beyeler Foundation, a visually striking art gallery in Basel. Next, go to Rhine Falls.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Switzerland at Zurich. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tremondi, 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 Metropol, 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 Oliver Twist. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Zurich and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Safari Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Am Wasser is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar 63 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!
Day 9
- Zurich - Departure day
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- Old Botanical Garden
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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 Zurich.
On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace, Niederdorf. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Old Botanical Garden, Zurich, a standout botanical garden before you head out.
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 Zurich or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Bar ODEON, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Brasserie Johanniter? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Zurich 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.
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