Cheap 12-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 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to middle bridge. This road bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Basel, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,025 visitors.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at tibits, 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 Essential by Dorint Basel City - 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 Hotel Les Trois Rois, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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!

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 2 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Basel Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 visitors. Attracting more than 2,012,511 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Basel Zoo, head to Tinguely Fountain. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,117 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Museum of Natural History Basel. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,084 visitors.

Your discovery of Basel does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Basel 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.

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 exploring, unwind at the popular HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. KLARA 13 AG is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel.

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

Day 3 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, 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 Basel, with 1 night to stay in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dreiländereck. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,756 reviews.

Next up is Museum Tinguely. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,311 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Basel Paper Mill. This paper museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,409 reviews.

Kannenfeldpark is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,501 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Grand Casino Basel. This casino is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,772 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.

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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Unternehmen Mitte is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to WERK 8, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Basel, Münchenstein, and Arlesheim. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bern, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 349 reviews.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,049 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Wettsteinbrücke. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 942 reviews.

Münchenstein’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Münchenstein welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Merian Gärten. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,832 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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ermitage Arlesheim. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 737 visitors.

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

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!

On day 5 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 — 2 nights.

Journey into the unknown at Rose Garden Bern, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable architectural structure has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,381 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, bear pit is a recommended place to visit. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Bern is Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,889 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Bern offers an experience you will remember.

Museum of Communication is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Bern. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,923 reviews.

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 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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Aarbergerhof, 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 Hotel Bellevue Palace, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 6 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 1 night in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bern Minster. This church building is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bern, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,813 visitors.

UNESCO - Bern Old Town is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Zytglogge. Visitors have rated this astronomical clock an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,374 reviews.

Bundesplatz is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,059 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Federal Palace of Switzerland, perhaps the most famous architectural structure in Bern. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,882 travelers.

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

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, Bern 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 foodie adventure at The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to The Bowling Company AG, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Noa, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

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

Make St. Beatus Caves your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,933 reviews.

After soaking in Beatenberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Harderkulm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Harderkulm, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Harderkulm, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This mountain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,635 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Harderkulm, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ballenberg. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,858 visitors.

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 mouthwatering delights of Lucerne, 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.

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.

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.

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 8 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 1: Lucerne. You'll stay in Zurich for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne one of your first sightseeing stops in Lucerne. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,066 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Chapel Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Church of St. Leodegar. This 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, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. A trip to this popular sculpture is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 20,294 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 local and international travelers. Approximately 562,605 people visit this attraction 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.

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.

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

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.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Switzerland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in 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 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, Zürich Zoo is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,594 travelers. Every year, 382,603 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Zurich.

We also recommend a stop at Kronenhalle. The architectural structure has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,764 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.

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.

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

Aurora 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, Kafi Dihei offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Weisses Rössli, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Ebrietas Bar is an excellent example of a great bar in Zurich offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Rimini Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Zurich.

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

Day 10 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Fraumünster. This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,411 visitors.

Next, make your way to Grossmünster. This top attraction is a church building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Chinagarten Zürich. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Zürichhorn. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,512 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Botanical Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,198 travelers.

Make your vacation in Switzerland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Switzerland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Viadukt, 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 La Pasta - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Metropol promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Zurich and Neuhausen. 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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Lindenhof. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Continue your journey at Swiss National Museum. This organization is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,085 travelers from near and far.

Zurich is also the home of FIFA Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,338 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Arboretum Zürich. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,796 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zurich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 50 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Rhine Falls one of your first sightseeing stops in Neuhausen. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 70,505 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 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.

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.

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

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Basel.

Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Basel’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Switzerland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Switzerland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Basel is the remarkable Gate of Spalen. This tower and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,475 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 Gifthüttli, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Schlüsselzunft is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurant Stucki - Tanja Grandits, 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!