Cheap 7-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling south to Geneva, Bern, 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.

Make middle bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in Basel. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,025 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at tibits, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Essential by Dorint Basel City offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Hotel Les Trois Rois is the perfect spot for you!

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 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 Geneva, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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 Tinguely Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Basel Zoo. This zoo has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,178 reviews. Every year, 2,012,511 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

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.

While exploring Switzerland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Geneva has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Geneva on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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 Geneva that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Auberge de Savièse 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, Chez ma Cousine offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Oh Martine!, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Roi Ubu, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bateau-Lavoir provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mulligans Irish Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Bern, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Bern, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Geneva.

Kick off the day at L'horloge fleurie, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This floral clock is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,614 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Jardin Anglais. Jardin Anglais is an urban park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,129 reviews.

The Geneva Water Fountain is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,281 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Bains des Pâquis. This public bath is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,194 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva, a famous botanical garden in Geneva. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,702 travelers.

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.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Bern. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Adrianos Bar & Café, a prime location for a drink.

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 4 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at UNESCO - Bern Old Town, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,755 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at bear pit. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veytaux. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Chillon Castle, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,331 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lavey-Morcles. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Journey into the unknown at Les Bains de Lavey, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable spa has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,702 reviews.

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

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

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 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 2: Innertkirchen and Lucerne. You'll stay in Zurich for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Lucerne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zurich. Your travel time is around 43 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Swiss Museum of Transport. This extraordinary technology museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 visitors. Each year, around 562,605 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

While in Lucerne, we also recommend a visit to Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,995 reviews.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Zurich, 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.

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!

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rio Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Stanza offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 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.

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.

Zürich Zoo is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zurich and set your GPS to Neuhausen. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Neuhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Rhine Falls. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

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

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.

Discover the heart of Basel through its culinary scene, starting with HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt. 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 KLARA 13 AG, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Switzerland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an 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.

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 Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Unternehmen Mitte is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is WERK 8, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Basel.

You’ll then say farewell to Basel. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!