Cheap 9-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Zurich traveling south to Basel, Lugano, Sion, Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern

Your exciting road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Zurich and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Lindenhof. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Zurich. 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 Babu's, 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 Cantinetta Antinori - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, El Lokal promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Rio Bar is an excellent example of a great bar in Zurich offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at La Stanza, another of locals’ go-to bars in Zurich. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Zurich, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is for you.

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 Zurich. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Basel, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Grossmünster, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,297 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Kunsthaus Zürich. Kunsthaus Zürich is an art museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,594 reviews. Attracting more than 382,603 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Zürich Opera House is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,213 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Zürich Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 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.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at tibits, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Essential by Dorint Basel City is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Hotel Les Trois Rois, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Schall und Rauch Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Switzerland will take you to the city of Lugano, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Lugano, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Basel and Lucerne.

Make Basel Zoo one of your first sightseeing stops in Basel. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This zoo attracts 2,012,511 visitors every year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lucerne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Continue your journey at Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 travelers from near and far. Approximately 562,605 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Lucerne.

Lucerne is also the home of Chapel Bridge. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Lugano. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Lugano, 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 Lugano 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 Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa, 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 Bar Laura, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Il Fermento, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Oops provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Day 4 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 — Lugano, Melide, and Fürgangen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Sion, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parco Ciani. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,286 visitors.

Lugano Arte e Cultura is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum building has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,055 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lugano and set your GPS to Melide. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Melide, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Swissminiatur your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this miniature park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,624 reviews.

Set your GPS to Fürgangen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Fürgangen beckons with new experiences!

Make GOMS Bridge (Hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach) your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,833 reviews.

Sion 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 town.

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

Stella marina 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, L'Enclos de Valère offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Pavillon des Sports, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Brésilien. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Boléro offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Dugout Sports Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the town of Sion!

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Switzerland, you’ll tour 4: Corsier-sur-Vevey, Montreux, Veytaux, and Lavey-Morcles. You'll stay in Geneva 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, Corsier-sur-Vevey. This car ride takes around 47 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Chaplin's World. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,338 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Corsier-sur-Vevey, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Montreux. This drive usually takes around 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Golden Pass Railway. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,676 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Freddie Mercury statue. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,801 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Montreux and set your GPS to Veytaux. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Veytaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Chillon Castle. This extraordinary museum has an average rating 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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Geneva, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Auberge de Savièse, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Chez ma Cousine is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Oh Martine!

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Roi Ubu is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bateau-Lavoir, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mulligans Irish Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Drop by the renowned St Pierre Cathedral. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,386 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is L'horloge fleurie. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,614 visitors, this floral clock deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Jardin Anglais. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,129 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is The Geneva Water Fountain. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,281 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Bains des Pâquis. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,194 travelers, this public bath is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Geneva.

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

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

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Captain Cook Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. King Size Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pin Up Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Switzerland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Lausanne, Gruyères, and Pringy. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Lausanne Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,766 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, The Olympic Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,534 reviews.

After soaking in Lausanne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gruyères. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Gruyères, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

After soaking in Pringy’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bern. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Bern, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at La Maison du Gruyère, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,333 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.

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.

Discover the heart of Bern through its culinary scene, starting with Brasserie Obstberg. 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 Süder, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Volver BarTapasCafé, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Adrianos Bar & Café.

A road trip vacation in Lausanne can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Switzerland!

Day 8 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 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Switzerland, including Bern, Ballenberg, and Innertkirchen.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,755 reviews.

Next up is bear pit. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ballenberg, 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 Ballenberg may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ballenberg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Ballenberg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,858 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Innertkirchen.

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

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.

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, Zurich 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 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Ebrietas Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Rimini Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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 Zurich.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Zurich is the remarkable Botanical Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,198 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Zurich, consider a top-rated restaurant like Viadukt, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. La Pasta is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Metropol, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Zurich.

You’ll then say farewell to Zurich. 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!