Cheap One-Week Switzerland Road Trip from Geneva to Basel, Zurich, and Bern

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

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Bains des Pâquis. Previous visitors have rated this public bath an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,194 reviews.

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

Auberge de Savièse offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Chez ma Cousine. Or, try Oh Martine!, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Roi Ubu is an excellent example of a great bar in Geneva offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Le Bateau-Lavoir, another of locals’ go-to bars in Geneva. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Geneva, Mulligans Irish Bar is for you.

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

On day 2 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Geneva 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 Geneva — 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see St Pierre Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,386 visitors.

L'horloge fleurie is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This floral clock has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,614 travelers.

Geneva is also the home of Jardin Anglais. Around 18,129 people have rated this urban park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Broken Chair. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,465 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Geneva is also your chance to admire Conservatory and Botanical Garden of the City of Geneva. This must-visit botanical garden enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,702 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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Geneva 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 of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at 22 grand'rue, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Café de Paris - Chez Boubier, 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 Hôtel Métropole Genève, 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!

Day 3 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 3 wonderful destinations — Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, and Gruyères. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Basel, where you'll be spending 1 night.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Chaplin's World. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,338 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Montreux. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Freddie Mercury statue, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,801 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Golden Pass Railway. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,676 travelers.

Gruyères’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Montreux behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Gruyères welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gruyères Castle. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,612 visitors.

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.

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at tibits, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Essential by Dorint Basel City, 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 Les Trois Rois, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Schall und Rauch Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Neuhausen and Basel. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Zurich, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Basel, 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 1 hour 26 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rhine Falls. This extraordinary waterfall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 70,505 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Basel, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, middle bridge is a great place to start. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,025 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Basel Minster. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,442 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Basel Zoo. This site gets more than 2,012,511 visitors annually. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 visitors.

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 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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rio Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Stanza is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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 Zurich! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Drop by the renowned Zürich Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Kunsthaus Zürich. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,594 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Grossmünster. This church building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,297 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Lindenhof. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,365 local and international travelers.

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

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.

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

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Ebrietas Bar, considered one of the best bars in Zurich. You can also enjoy drinks at Rimini Bar, known for its fun atmosphere.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Lucerne and Innertkirchen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lucerne. This car ride takes around 45 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Lion Monument Lucerne, a remarkable sculpture where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,571 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 562,605 people visit it every year.

Chapel Bridge is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Upon reaching Innertkirchen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Titlis Cliff Walk, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,537 reviews.

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.

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.

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

Keep the evening going at Adrianos Bar & Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 3: Bern, Lavey-Morcles, and Veytaux. You'll stay in Geneva for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Veytaux, 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 Bern to Veytaux may take around 1 hour 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veytaux, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 visitors.

Bear pit is another popular attraction you could visit today. This architectural structure has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Veytaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lavey-Morcles may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Lavey-Morcles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Les Bains de Lavey. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,702 visitors.

After soaking in Bern’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veytaux. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Veytaux, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Chillon Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,331 visitors.

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.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Bologne, 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 Restaurant Les Armures - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Demi Lune Café promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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!

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 Geneva.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Geneva’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Switzerland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Switzerland forever.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Geneva, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Beau-Rivage Genève, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Les Brasseurs features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Restaurant Vieux Bois is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Geneva. 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!