Cheap 7-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel to Bern, Lausanne, 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.

Journey into the unknown at middle bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable road bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,025 reviews.

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.

Tibits offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Essential by Dorint Basel City. Or, try Hotel Les Trois Rois, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Schall und Rauch Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Basel. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bern, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Basel Minster. Previous visitors have rated this cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 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 Tinguely Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,117 reviews.

Basel Zoo is another outstanding experience in Basel. Around 15,178 travelers have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 2,012,511 visitors annually.

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

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Adrianos Bar & Café, where the evening is just getting started.

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

Day 3 of your exciting road trip across Switzerland is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Bern and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Bern.

Drop by the renowned UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is bear pit. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 visitors, this architectural structure deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Beatenberg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bern behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Beatenberg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at St. Beatus Caves. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,933 visitors.

When you arrive in Innertkirchen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Titlis Cliff Walk. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,537 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bern.

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

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.

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: Geneva. You'll stay in Lausanne for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Geneva. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,702 reviews.

Next up, make your way to The Geneva Water Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,281 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Jardin Anglais. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,129 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit L'horloge fleurie. This floral clock is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,614 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Bains des Pâquis. This public bath is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,194 visitors.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Lausanne, 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Holy Cow!, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Alpha Palmiers by Fassbind offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Vieux-Lausanne is the perfect spot for you!

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Captain Cook Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. King Size Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pin Up Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Veytaux and Lucerne. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lausanne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Veytaux may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Veytaux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Chillon Castle. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Veytaux, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,331 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lucerne. This car ride takes around 2 hours 15 min.

Take the opportunity to see Swiss Museum of Transport. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 visitors and gets around 562,605 visits every year.

Lion Monument Lucerne is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sculpture has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,294 travelers.

Lucerne is also the home of Chapel Bridge. Around 29,995 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

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.

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!

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rio Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Stanza, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Basel, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Basel, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Zurich and Neuhausen.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Lindenhof. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 visitors.

When you’re finished at Lindenhof, head to Zürich Opera House. This one-of-a-kind opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,213 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Chinagarten Zürich. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Zürich Zoo. This zoo is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,267 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Zurich, 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 48 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Rhine Falls. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 70,505 visitors.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Basel, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, 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 KLARA 13 AG - 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 Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 7 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.

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.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Basel, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Unternehmen Mitte features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, WERK 8 is a highly recommended spot.

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!