Cheap 9-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Bern traveling east to Lucerne, Zurich, and Basel

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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rose Garden Bern. Previous visitors have rated this architectural structure an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,381 reviews.

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 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.

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!

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bern, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Bern. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to bear pit. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

Bern Minster is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church building has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,813 visitors.

UNESCO - Bern Old Town is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 visitors.

Zytglogge is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This astronomical clock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,374 reviews.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Bern, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Bern and the culture of past or present-day Switzerland.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Bern, 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 flavor-filled journey at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Aarbergerhof offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Hotel Bellevue Palace is the perfect spot for you!

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 5 wonderful destinations — Beatenberg, Harderkulm, Ballenberg, Innertkirchen, and Lammi. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Lucerne, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bern, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beatenberg. Your travel time is around 49 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to St. Beatus Caves. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,933 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Harderkulm. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Harderkulm. This mountain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,635 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ballenberg. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Ballenberg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,858 visitors.

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

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, Lucerne 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 town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Bolero offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Ampersand. Or, try Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar 59 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar 58 is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café Tacuba Neustadt is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Zurich, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Zurich, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Lucerne.

Kick off the day at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This wooden bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,066 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Chapel Bridge. Chapel Bridge is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 reviews.

Church of St. Leodegar is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,649 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,294 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Swiss Museum of Transport, a famous technology museum in Lucerne. This attraction welcomes 562,605 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 travelers.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rio Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Stanza provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Zürich Zoo. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Zurich, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 visitors.

Grossmünster is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Lindenhof. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Swiss National Museum is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an organization rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,085 reviews.

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

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 Aurora, 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 Kafi Dihei - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Weisses Rössli promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Sellenbüren, Kloten, Winterthur, and Neuhausen. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Basel, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sellenbüren, 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 Zurich to Sellenbüren may take around 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sellenbüren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Uetliberg Lookout Tower, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,349 reviews.

Kloten’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sellenbüren behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Kloten welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Observation Deck B, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,332 reviews.

Winterthur’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kloten behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Winterthur welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Wildpark Bruderhaus, a remarkable wildlife park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,573 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Swiss Science Center Technorama. This technology museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,644 travelers.

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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Basel, 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 tibits, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Essential by Dorint Basel City, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Hotel Les Trois Rois, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

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

Day 7 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basel Zoo, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,178 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 2,012,511 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Tinguely Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 travelers.

Gate of Spalen is another must-visit attraction. This renowned tower offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,475 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit University of Basel Botanical Garden. This well-loved botanical garden boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,078 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Kannenfeldpark awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 previous visitors.

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.

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.

HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt 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, KLARA 13 AG offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Basel. 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.

Make middle bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this road bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,025 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Museum of Natural History Basel. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,084 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Basel Minster is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basel Minster, the perfect next stop is Fine Arts Museum Basel. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,049 reviews.

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.

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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, The Bowling Company AG is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Noa, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Switzerland is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bern.

As you approach the end of your journey in Switzerland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Bern’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Switzerland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Switzerland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bern is the remarkable Bundesplatz. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,059 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!