Affordable 12-Day Relaxed Switzerland Road Trip Vacation from Basel to Lucerne, and Zurich

Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Basel, where you'll stay for 3 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.

One thing you have to know about Basel is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Basel.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Gate Of Spalen. This tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,523 visitors.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Cargo Kultur Bar, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? KOHLMANNS offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, tibits is the perfect spot for you!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Basel, Schall Und Rauch Bar. Alternatively, visit Grenzwert Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by 8 Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Switzerland! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Switzerland!

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

Journey into the unknown at Museum Of Natural History Basel, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,111 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Basel Minster is a recommended place to visit. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,564 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Basel is Tinguely Fountain. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,202 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Basel offers an experience you will remember.

Basel Zoo is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Basel. This zoo promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,396 reviews. Each year, approximately 2,012,511 people travel to visit Basel Zoo.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Basel. 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.

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, Basel 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.

Consum is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, L'atelier is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Switzerland.

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 Basel and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Make Museum Tinguely your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,350 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Wettsteinbrücke. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 951 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this road bridge every year.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,141 visitors.

When you’re finished at Fine Arts Museum Basel, the perfect next stop is Kannenfeldpark. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,538 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Dreiländereck. This point of interest is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,812 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.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Hotel Les Trois Rois, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof) is the perfect spot for you!

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Switzerland.

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 4 destinations: Riehen, Münchenstein, Arlesheim, and Reigoldswil. You'll stay in Lucerne for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Basel, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Riehen may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Riehen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Beyeler Foundation. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,360 visitors and gets around 332,000 visits every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Riehen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Münchenstein may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Münchenstein, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Merian Gärten. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,884 visitors.

Set your GPS to Arlesheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arlesheim beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ermitage Arlesheim. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 755 visitors.

When you’re finished at Ermitage Arlesheim, head to Apollogrotte. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 420 reviews.

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

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

Valentino stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the town of Lucerne, Bar 58. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Penthouse, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the town of Lucerne!

On day 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Lucerne 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 town of Lucerne — 2 nights.

Make Verkehrshaus Planetarium one of your first sightseeing stops in Lucerne. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 138 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Swiss Museum Of Transport is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This technology museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,843 reviews. Up to 562,605 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Lucerne special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Strandbad Lido Luzern. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,869 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Lucerne. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Lucerne offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Switzerland worth remembering for a lifetime.

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.

Ampersand 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, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Switzerland! Make every second of your affordable travels in Lucerne count!

Day 6 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lucerne, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the town. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Lucerne, with 1 night to stay in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Zytturm. This much-appreciated tower is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 816 reviews.

Next up is Museggmauer. This fortification has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,258 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Church Of St. Leodegar. This church building has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,678 reviews.

Bourbaki-panorama (building) is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 917 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,757 reviews.

Your discovery of Lucerne does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Lucerne on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Switzerland.

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

Bar bei Miguel offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to la vie en rose. Or, try Restaurant Schiff, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the town of Lucerne!

Day 7 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 1 wonderful destinations — Lucerne. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Zurich, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Sammlung Rosengart Luzern. This extraordinary art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 808 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 30,595 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Jesuit Church, Lucerne. This church building is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,696 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Lucerne Needle Dam. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 337 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This wooden bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,153 travelers.

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

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.

Widder Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Rio Bar is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through 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 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Zürich Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,599 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,760 travelers from near and far. Approximately 382,603 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Zurich.

Zurich is also the home of Kronenhalle. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,788 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Zürich Opera House. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,349 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Switzerland is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Switzerland, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Switzerland. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Switzerland that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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 fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Cantinetta Antinori, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is El Lokal, 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 Aurora, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Eldorado, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Gotthard Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is La Stanza, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Switzerland!

Day 9’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 2 nights left in Zurich. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Botanical Garden. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,272 visitors.

Next, make your way to Zürichhorn. This top attraction is a river delta with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,563 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Chinagarten Zürich. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,600 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Swiss National Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,221 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Lindenhof. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,519 travelers.

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.

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 Zurich that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Discover the heart of Zurich through its culinary scene, starting with Alpenrose. 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 Kafi Dihei, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Weisses Rössli, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Bar Babalu and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Nelson, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Switzerland.

Day 10 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 Zurich and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Arboretum Zürich, a remarkable arboretum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,823 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Fifa Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,523 travelers.

Fraumünster is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,482 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 Grossmünster. This well-loved church building boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 8,428 reviews.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Zurich, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Zurich and the culture of past or present-day 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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Viadukt, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, La Pasta is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Zurich, Ebrietas Bar. Total 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. Locals also recommend Rimini Bar, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Switzerland.

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Aathal, Winterthur, and Sellenbüren. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Basel, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aathal, 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 Zurich to Aathal may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Aathal, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,151 visitors.

Set your GPS to Winterthur and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Winterthur beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Wildpark Bruderhaus. This extraordinary wildlife park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,615 visitors.

Next, make your way to Swiss Science Center Technorama. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,784 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sellenbüren. This car ride takes around 39 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Üetliberg. Previous visitors have rated this mountain an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,099 reviews.

Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,434 reviews.

Basel 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.

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 flavor-filled journey at KLARA 13 AG, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Warteck Brewery Basel offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel is the perfect spot for you!

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Switzerland.

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Switzerland as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Basel.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 6,094 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Basel or just grab something light to keep you going.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Basel, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Restaurant Safran Zunft Basel, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Restaurant Fiorentina Basel features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Unternehmen Mitte is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Basel and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Switzerland!