Cheap 10-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling east to Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich

Your exciting road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Basel, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Basel and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

Basel is a popular cheap holiday destination in Switzerland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Switzerland, Basel is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to middle bridge. This extraordinary road bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,025 visitors.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Switzerland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Basel that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Discover the heart of Basel through its culinary scene, starting with tibits. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Essential by Dorint Basel City, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Hotel Les Trois Rois, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Schall und Rauch Bar, a must-visit destination for a great night out.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 1: Basel. You'll stay in Bern for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bern, 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 Basel to Bern may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bern, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 reviews.

Continue your journey at Fine Arts Museum Basel. This museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,049 travelers from near and far.

Basel is also the home of Tinguely Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Basel Zoo. A total of 2,012,511 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

While exploring Switzerland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Bern has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Bern on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Bern, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Brasserie Obstberg, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Süder - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Volver BarTapasCafé, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Adrianos Bar & Café.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bern!

Day 3 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Switzerland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Bern! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bern and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 2 nights in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rose Garden Bern. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,381 visitors.

Bear pit is another popular attraction you could visit today. This architectural structure has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,889 visitors.

Museum of Communication is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,923 reviews.

Touring the best attractions in Switzerland offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Switzerland you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Switzerland. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Switzerland.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Bern is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Discover the heart of Bern through its culinary scene, starting with McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Aarbergerhof, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Hotel Bellevue Palace, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Bern and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Bern — 1 night.

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 point of interest every year.

Zytglogge is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This astronomical clock has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,374 visitors.

When you’re finished at Zytglogge, the perfect next stop is Bundesplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,059 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Federal Palace of Switzerland. This architectural structure is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,882 reviews.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Bern, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by The Bowling Company AG - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Noa promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 5 charming destinations — Beatenberg, Ballenberg, Harderkulm, Lammi, and Innertkirchen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Lucerne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bern, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Beatenberg may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Beatenberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, St. Beatus Caves is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,933 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Harderkulm and set your GPS to Ballenberg. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 29 min. Upon reaching Ballenberg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,858 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Harderkulm. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Harderkulm one of your first sightseeing stops in Harderkulm. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,635 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Lucerne. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Lucerne, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Switzerland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Lucerne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Bolero, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Ampersand - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar 59, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar 58 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Tacuba Neustadt. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the town of Lucerne!

Day 6 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Lucerne. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zurich, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Zurich and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zurich beckons with new experiences!

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 sightseeing destination 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.

Zurich offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Switzerland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Zurich should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Zurich, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Babu's, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Cantinetta Antinori is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to El Lokal, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rio Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Stanza offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 2 nights, to stay in Zurich. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

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 Zürich Opera House. This opera house is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,213 reviews.

Zürich Zoo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this zoo, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Zurich. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Savor the culinary delights of Zurich, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Aurora, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Kafi Dihei is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Weisses Rössli.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Zurich, Ebrietas Bar. Rimini Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Switzerland!

Day 8 means another chance to make the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Kunsthaus Zürich. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,594 reviews. Each year, 382,603 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

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.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Switzerland. To have the best affordable travel experience in Switzerland, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Switzerland unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Switzerland.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Zurich has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Viadukt offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to La Pasta. Or, try Metropol, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Zurich!

Day 9 of your road trip across Switzerland is another proof that cheap holidays in Switzerland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Neuhausen and Schaffhausen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Basel, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Schaffhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Neuhausen. Your travel time is around 9 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Rhine Falls. This much-appreciated waterfall is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Schaffhausen. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen one of your first sightseeing stops in Schaffhausen. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 140 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Museum zu Allerheiligen is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 286 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Waldfriedhof Schaffhausen. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 324 visitors.

While exploring Switzerland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Basel has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Basel on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Basel offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Switzerland.

HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, KLARA 13 AG offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Basel.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Basel’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Take home a piece of Switzerland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Basel, consider a top-rated restaurant like Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Unternehmen Mitte is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is WERK 8, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Basel.

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!