Cheap 11-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling south to Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, and Geneva

Your exciting road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Basel, where you'll stay for 2 nights. 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Gate of Spalen is a great place to start. This tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,475 visitors.

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. Basel has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Schall und Rauch Bar, considered one of the best bars in Basel.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Basel. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Basel 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 Basel Minster. This much-appreciated cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 reviews.

Next up is Fine Arts Museum Basel. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,049 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Tinguely Fountain. This park has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,117 reviews.

Basel Zoo is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 reviews. This popular attraction gets 2,012,511 visits every year.

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.

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. Basel has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is KLARA 13 AG, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 3 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 5 wonderful destinations — Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, Winterthur, Kloten, and Sellenbüren. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Zurich, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Neuhausen’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 28 min. Neuhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Rhine Falls is a great place to start. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 70,505 visitors.

Set your GPS to Schaffhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Schaffhausen beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Waldfriedhof Schaffhausen. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 324 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Winterthur. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Swiss Science Center Technorama. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,644 visitors.

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

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

Babu's 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, Cantinetta Antinori offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at El Lokal, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 1: Zurich. You'll stay in Lucerne for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Lindenhof, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Grossmünster. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 travelers.

Kunsthaus Zürich is another must-visit attraction. This renowned art museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,594 travelers and attracting 382,603 annual visitors, 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 Zürich Zoo. This well-loved zoo boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 26,267 reviews.

Lucerne 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 town.

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

Discover the heart of Lucerne through its culinary scene, starting with Bolero. 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 Ampersand, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar 59 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar 58 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Tacuba Neustadt is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Switzerland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Switzerland!

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne is a great place to start. This wooden bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,066 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Church of St. Leodegar. The church building has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,649 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,294 reviews.

Swiss Museum of Transport is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this technology museum, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,571 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique. This attraction gets 562,605 visitors every year.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Interlaken, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the town'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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Taj Palace, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. OX Restaurant & Grill is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Pizzeria Horn.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Brasserie 17, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Bern, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Bern, you'll explore 5 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Innertkirchen, Lammi, Ballenberg, Harderkulm, and Beatenberg.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Innertkirchen.

Take the opportunity to see Titlis Cliff Walk. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,537 visitors.

After soaking in Lammi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ballenberg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Ballenberg, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aare Gorge - West Entrance. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,078 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 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

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.

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. Bern has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Brasserie Obstberg, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Süder, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Volver BarTapasCafé, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Continue your lively evening at Adrianos Bar & Café, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bern, Gruyères, and Pringy. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Geneva, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,755 reviews.

Next up is bear pit. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Bern, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gruyères. Your travel time is around 54 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Gruyères Castle is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,612 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pringy and set your GPS to Geneva. 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 1 hour 32 min. Upon reaching Geneva, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is La Maison du Gruyère. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,333 reviews.

Geneva 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.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Switzerland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Geneva is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Auberge de Savièse, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Chez ma Cousine offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Oh Martine! is the perfect spot for you!

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Roi Ubu stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Bateau-Lavoir offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mulligans Irish Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Ready for day 8 of your road trip vacation in Switzerland? Discover more of Geneva and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 2 nights in this vibrant destination!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva. This much-appreciated botanical garden is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,702 reviews.

Next up is Broken Chair. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,465 visitors.

Set your GPS to Lausanne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lausanne beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Lausanne Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,766 visitors.

When you’re finished at Lausanne Cathedral, head to The Olympic Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,534 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Geneva and your accommodation.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to 22 grand'rue, 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 Café de Paris - Chez Boubier - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Hôtel Métropole Genève promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

Day 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Geneva, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Geneva, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Kick off the day at Bains des Pâquis, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This public bath is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,194 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit St Pierre Cathedral. St Pierre Cathedral is a church with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,386 reviews.

L'horloge fleurie is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This floral clock is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,614 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Jardin Anglais. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,129 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on The Geneva Water Fountain, a famous park in Geneva. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,281 travelers.

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.

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

Discover the heart of Geneva through its culinary scene, starting with Bologne. 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 Restaurant Les Armures, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Demi Lune Café, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

A road trip vacation in Geneva can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Switzerland!

Day 10 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 3 wonderful destinations — Veytaux, Montreux, and Corsier-sur-Vevey. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Basel, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Geneva, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Veytaux. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Chillon Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,331 reviews.

Montreux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Veytaux behind. This drive usually takes around 5 min. Montreux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Freddie Mercury statue, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,801 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Golden Pass Railway. Golden Pass Railway is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,676 reviews.

After soaking in Montreux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Corsier-sur-Vevey. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Corsier-sur-Vevey, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Chaplin's World, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,338 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Basel. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Basel, 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 Basel that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your foodie adventure at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Unternehmen Mitte, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss WERK 8, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Basel.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Basel’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Switzerland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Switzerland forever.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Basel is the remarkable middle bridge. This road bridge and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,025 visitors.

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 Boo Klybeck, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Flanagan's is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is KaBAR, 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!