Cheap One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Bern traveling north to Zurich and Basel

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
8 days & 7 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
7 nights included
Car rental
8 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Get ready for an exciting vacation without hitting your budget hard with this 8-day cheap road trip in Switzerland. Venture into the heart of Bern, Zurich, and Basel, where every mile is packed with value and excitement. Embrace the freedom of the open road and make memories that last a lifetime, all within your budget.

Explore Switzerland for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Switzerland travel package promises an exhilarating 8-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 3 nights in Bern, 1 night in Zurich, and 3 nights in Basel. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Switzerland and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Switzerland at the lowest price!

On arrival in Bern, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Switzerland. Switzerland offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in Switzerland, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.

This affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 8-day vacation in Switzerland. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 7 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Switzerland with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Switzerland travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Switzerland and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Switzerland's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Switzerland offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Switzerland with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Switzerland fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

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Included

Hotel, 7 nights
Rental car, 8 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

View of the Old Town of Basel with red stone Munster cathedral and the Rhine river, Switzerland.Basel / 3 nights
Panoramic view of historic Zurich city center with famous Fraumunster, Grossmunster and St. Peter and river Limmat at Lake Zurich on a sunny day with clouds in summer, Canton of Zurich, SwitzerlandZurich / 1 night
Bern, Switzerland. View of the old city center and Nydeggbrucke bridge over river Aare.Bern / 3 nights

Map

Attractions

Photo of the landscape of the Zurich zoo, Switzerland.Zürich Zoo
Photo of Pink flamingos in the water in the zoo of Basel, Switzerland.Basel Zoo
Photo of a Bear is walking along edge of pool in Bern Bear Pit (Barengraben) in Bern Bear Park, Berne, Switzerland.Bear pit
Photo of bridge at Limmatquai in the city center of Zurich, Switzerland. People on the background. Seen from Lindenhof hill.Lindenhof
Photo of Grossmünster Romanesque-style Protestant church in Zürich, Switzerland.Grossmünster
Photo of Swiss National Museum or Landesmuseum in Zurich, Switzerland.Swiss National Museum
Photo of the Basel Minster Cathedral in Switzerland.Basel Minster
photo of Middle bridge over Rhine River in Basel, Switzerland.Middle bridge
photo of aerial view of scenic Bern old town cityscape with old buildings Bern Minster cathedral tower and Aare River view in Bern SwitzerlandBern Minster
UNESCO- Von Bern, Grünes Quartier, Stadtteil I, Bern, Bern-Mittelland administrative district, Bernese Mittelland administrative region, SwitzerlandUNESCO - Bern Old Town
photo of a beautiful sky with green trees and beautiful roses in Rose Garden Bern in Switzerland.Rose Garden Bern
Tinguely Fountain, Vorstädte, Basel, Basel-City, SwitzerlandTinguely Fountain
Fine Arts Museum Basel, Vorstädte, Basel, Basel-City, SwitzerlandFine Arts Museum Basel
photo of astronomical clock on the medieval Zytglogge clock tower in Kramgasse street in old city center of Bern, Switzerland.Zytglogge
photo of Bundesplatz the Swiss Capital Building in Bern, Switzerland.Bundesplatz
Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, Kirchenfeld, Stadtteil IV, Bern, Bern-Mittelland administrative district, Bernese Mittelland administrative region, SwitzerlandBernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum
Kannenfeld Park, St. Johann, Basel, Basel-City, SwitzerlandKannenfeld Park
photo of Spalentor Gate in Basel, one of the most beautiful gates of Switzerland.Gate of Spalen
photo of Museum Tinguely in Basel, Switzerland.Museum Tinguely
Museum of Natural History Basel, Altstadt Grossbasel, Basel, Basel-City, SwitzerlandMuseum of Natural History Basel
Museum of CommunicationMuseum of Communication
Grand Casino Basel, St. Johann, Basel, Basel-City, SwitzerlandGrand Casino Basel
Dreiländereck FR/CH/DE, Kleinhüningen, Basel, Basel-City, SwitzerlandDreiländereck
photo of elevator to Munster Platform in Bern, Switzerland.Münster platform
Basel Paper Mill
photo of beautiful sunny day at University of Basel Botanical Garden in Basel, Switzerland.University of Basel Botanical Garden
photo of skyline of the old town of Basel with Basler Minster and Wettstein Bridge in the foreground on a blue cloud spring day in Basel, Switzerland.Wettsteinbrücke
photo of the Kindlifresserbrunnen (Child Eater Fountain) sculpture in Bern, Switzerland.Kindlifresserbrunnen
photo of frozen Meret Oppenheim Fountain and Police office at Waisenhausplatz in Bern, Switzerland.Waisenhausplatz

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Bern - arrival day

  • Bern - Arrival day
  • More
  • Bundesplatz
  • More

Your exciting road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Bern, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bern and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

Bern is a popular cheap holiday destination in Switzerland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Switzerland, Bern 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.

Kick off the day at Bundesplatz, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,059 reviews.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Brasserie Obstberg, 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 Süder - 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 Volver BarTapasCafé, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Visit Adrianos Bar & Café, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Bern

  • Bern
  • More

Drive 4 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Rose Garden Bern
  • Bear pit
  • Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum
  • Museum of Communication
  • More

On day 2 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 — 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Rose Garden Bern is a great place to start. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,381 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is bear pit. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum. The museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,889 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Museum of Communication. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,923 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 Bern is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Aarbergerhof is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Hotel Bellevue Palace, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bern and Zurich

  • Zurich
  • Bern
  • More

Drive 126 km, 1 hour 44 min

  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • Kindlifresserbrunnen
  • Zytglogge
  • Bern Minster
  • Münster platform
  • More

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Zurich, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Zurich, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Bern.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kindlifresserbrunnen. This drinking fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 750 reviews.

While in Bern, we also recommend a visit to Zytglogge. This astronomical clock has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,374 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Bern Minster. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,813 travelers, this church building is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bern.

Make your way to Münster platform, perhaps the most famous observation deck in Bern. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,450 reviews.

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.

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.

Discover the heart of Zurich through its culinary scene, starting with Babu's. 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 Cantinetta Antinori, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore El Lokal, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rio Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Stanza offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Zurich and Basel

  • Basel
  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 105 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Swiss National Museum
  • Lindenhof
  • Grossmünster
  • Zürich Zoo
  • More

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 1: Zurich. You'll stay in Basel for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Swiss National Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,085 visitors.

Lindenhof is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 travelers.

Zurich is also the home of Grossmünster. Around 8,297 people have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Zürich Zoo. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 26,267 reviews, a visit to this zoo is a great idea.

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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Schall und Rauch Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Basel

  • Basel
  • More

Drive 14 km, 1 hour 17 min

  • Grand Casino Basel
  • Kannenfeld Park
  • University of Basel Botanical Garden
  • Gate of Spalen
  • Basel Zoo
  • More

Day 5 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! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Basel and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 2 nights in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Casino Basel. This extraordinary casino is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,772 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kannenfeldpark. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to University of Basel Botanical Garden. This botanical garden is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,078 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Gate of Spalen. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,475 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Basel Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 travelers. It’s estimated that 2,012,511 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Switzerland sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Switzerland. Switzerland has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Switzerland that will fill you with new inspiration.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, 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 KLARA 13 AG - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Basel

  • Basel
  • More

Drive 12 km, 47 min

  • Dreiländereck
  • Museum of Natural History Basel
  • Basel Minster
  • Fine Arts Museum Basel
  • More

Day 6 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Dreiländereck. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,756 visitors.

When you’re finished at Dreiländereck, head to Museum of Natural History Basel. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,084 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 Fine Arts Museum Basel. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,049 visitors.

Touring the best attractions in Switzerland offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Switzerland you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Switzerland. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Switzerland.

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 of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Unternehmen Mitte, 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 WERK 8, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Basel and Bern

  • Bern
  • Basel
  • More

Drive 97 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Middle bridge
  • Tinguely Fountain
  • Wettsteinbrücke
  • Basel Paper Mill
  • Museum Tinguely
  • More

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 — Basel. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bern, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Kick off the day at middle bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,025 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Tinguely Fountain. Tinguely Fountain is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 reviews.

Wettsteinbrücke is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 942 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Basel Paper Mill. This paper museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,409 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Museum Tinguely, a famous art museum in Basel. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,311 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.

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!

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bern - departure day

  • Bern - Departure day
  • More
  • Waisenhausplatz
  • More

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bern.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Bern’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 Bern is the remarkable Waisenhausplatz. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 787 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Bern, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Casino Bern, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Ristorante Verdi features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Ristorante Azzurro Terra e Mare is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Bern. 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!

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