Cheap 9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling north to Basel and Zurich
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Bring out the adventurer in you and embark on an exciting 9-day road trip through Switzerland! Travel to Bern, Basel, Riehen, Zurich, and Lucerne with this cheap holiday package!
Explore Switzerland for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Switzerland travel package promises an exhilarating 9-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, 2 nights in Basel, and 3 nights in Zurich. 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 9-day vacation in Switzerland. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 8 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Bern - arrival day
- Bern - Arrival day
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- Bundesplatz
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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.
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.
Bern is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Bundesplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
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.
Brasserie Obstberg offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Süder. Or, try Leichtsinn, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.
After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Bern, Zum Kuckuck. Alternatively, visit Piazza Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Die Taube, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.
Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!
Day 2 – Bern
- Bern
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Drive 9 km, 38 min
- Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum
- Museum of Communication
- Natural History Museum of Bern
- Zentrum Paul Klee
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bern, 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 Bern, with 1 night to stay in the area.
Discover a day packed with a visually striking, a heritage-rich, a romantic, a gorgeous, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed in Bern. Begin your sightseeing with Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Museum Of Communication, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bern, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Natural History Museum Of Bern. This underrated museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Zentrum Paul Klee, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Unesco - Bern Old Town and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most underrated attractions.
Make your vacation in Switzerland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Switzerland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.
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.
Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Bern, Ebrietas Bern. Adrianos Bar & Café is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Les Amis / Wohnzimmer, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Bern!
Day 3 – Bern and Basel
- Bern
- Basel
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Drive 101 km, 1 hour 56 min
- bear pit
- Rosengarten Bern
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
- Zytglogge
- Kornhausbrücke
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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 1 wonderful destinations — Bern. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Basel, where you'll be spending 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a serene, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a historically significant, a charming, and a grand. Whether you decide to explore Bern on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bear Pit is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout zoo before continuing your journey. Rose Garden Bern is your next stop. This beloved botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Bern.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Zytglogge. This culturally significant historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kornhausbrücke.
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.
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.
Keep the evening going at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Grenzwert Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 8 Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!
Day 4 – Basel
- Basel
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Drive 6 km, 55 min
- Kannenfeld Park
- Spalentorweg
- Mittlere Brücke
- Museum of Natural History Basel
- Basel Minster
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Day 4’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, proving that cheap holidays in Switzerland can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Basel. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.
Basel is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a historical landmark, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Kannenfeldpark. Just a short distance away is Gate Of Spalen, a historic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Middle Bridge, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Museum Of Natural History Basel. Last up on today’s itinerary is a church. Make your way to Basel Minster for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Basel.
Make your vacation in Switzerland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Switzerland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.
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.
Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Essential by Dorint Basel City, 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 Hasenburg - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Smilla Café promises to deliver a feast for the senses.
Consum offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Basel, check out L'atelier. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!
Day 5 – Basel, Riehen, and Zurich
- Basel
- Riehen
- Zurich
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Drive 99 km, 1 hour 53 min
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
- Tinguely Fountain
- Zoo Basel
- Beyeler Foundation
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On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Switzerland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Basel and Riehen. 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 3 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Basel, including a museum, an art installation, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Fine Arts Museum Basel. This underrated museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tinguely Fountain located in Basel for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Basel Zoo. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.
Set your GPS to Riehen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Riehen beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Beyeler Foundation, an up-and-coming art gallery known for its breathtaking features.
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 your preferred affordable place to stay.
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.
Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Widder Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rio Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!
Day 6 – Zurich
- Zurich
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Drive 10 km, 53 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Grossmünster
- Lindenhof
- Swiss National Museum
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Day 6 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 and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.
Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a zoo, a church, a historical landmark, a museum and much more! Zürich Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Grossmünster, an intriguing church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lindenhof, a majestic historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zurich. If you’re looking for more, Swiss National Museum is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
Make your vacation in Switzerland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Switzerland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.
Discovering the culinary wonders of Zurich 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 Cantinetta Antinori, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, El Lokal is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Aurora, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.
After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Eldorado, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Gotthard Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is La Stanza, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Switzerland!
Day 7 – Zurich
- Zurich
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Drive 10 km, 54 min
- FIFA Museum
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Botanical Garden
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Zürich Opera House
- Lindenhof
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On day 7 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich 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 Zurich — 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a photogenic, a respected, a charming, a peaceful, and a gorgeous. Whether you decide to explore Zurich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Fifa Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Chinagarten Zürich is your next stop. This underrated botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Zurich.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Botanical Garden. This idyllic botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kunsthaus Zürich and Zürich Opera House.
Make your vacation in Switzerland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Switzerland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.
Indulge in the culinary wonders of Zurich, 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 Alpenrose, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Kafi Dihei offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Weisses Rössli is the perfect spot for you!
After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Zurich, Bar Babalu. Alternatively, visit Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Nelson, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.
Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!
Day 8 – Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern
- Zurich
- Lucerne
- Bern
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Hofkirche St. Leodegar
- Chapel Bridge
- Spreuerbrücke
- Lindenhof
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Day 8 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Lucerne. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zurich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lucerne may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Lucerne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a locally renowned museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Lion Monument Lucerne, where you can soak in the historic surroundings. Next, explore Church Of St. Leodegar, yet another up-and-coming place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Chapel Bridge. This enchanting historical landmark is well worthwhile the visit. Lastly, head to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an underrated historical landmark you won’t want to miss.
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.
Rösterei Kaffee und Bar offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Kesar. Or, try Aarbergerhof, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Attika Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Switzerland!
Day 9 – Bern - departure day
- Bern - Departure day
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- fountain of justice
- UNESCO - Bern Old Town
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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.
Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Bern’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bern is the remarkable Fountain Of Justice. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 288 visitors.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.
If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Bern, consider a top-rated restaurant like Hotel Bellevue Palace, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Restaurants Terrasse is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Jack's Brasserie, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Bern.
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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