One-Week Relaxed Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Zurich
Description
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Description
Discover Switzerland stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through Basel, Lucerne, Zurich, Winterthur, and Neuhausen. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Switzerland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Basel, Lucerne, Zurich, Winterthur, and Neuhausen. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Basel and 3 nights in Zurich. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Switzerland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Basel, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Switzerland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Switzerland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Switzerland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rhine Falls. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chapel Bridge.
Traveling leisurely through Switzerland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Zürich Zoo. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Lion Monument Lucerne. Get close to the spectacular Basel Zoo and the wonderful Swiss Museum Of Transport. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Switzerland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Switzerland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Switzerland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Switzerland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Switzerland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Switzerland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Switzerland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Switzerland today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Basel - Arrival day
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- Mittlere Brücke
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Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Basel, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Basel and begin your adventure in Switzerland.
Basel 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 Middle Bridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Basel. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cargo Kultur Bar, an iconic dining spot in Basel. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of KOHLMANNS, a popular restaurant in Basel. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of tibits, a hidden gem nestled in Basel. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Basel and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Schall Und Rauch Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grenzwert Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 8 Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Basel as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Basel
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Drive 5 km, 26 min
- Spalentorweg
- University of Basel Botanical Garden
- Zoo Basel
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Basel. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Basel. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Basel!
Basel is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Gate Of Spalen, an up-and-coming historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find University Of Basel Botanical Garden, enchanting visitors with its idyllic appeal. Continue your exploration at Basel Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most well-known spots.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Switzerland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Basel, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional classic french menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, roots, known for its delicious modern and seasonal cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Basel is Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Basel. The bars in Basel make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Consum, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, L'atelier provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Basel
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Drive 2 km, 34 min
- Wettstein Bridge
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
- Tinguely Fountain
- Basel Minster
- Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Basel, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Basel, and meet locals along the way!
Start your day at Wettsteinbrücke. Then, wander over to Fine Arts Museum Basel. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Tinguely Fountain. This stunning art installation is a favorite among visitors.
Basel offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Basel Minster is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Basel Palatinate "pfalz" Observation Platform. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile observation deck.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Basel offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Basel, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Basel and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Basel
- Zurich
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Drive 154 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Spreuerbrücke
- Chapel Bridge
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Swiss Museum of Transport
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On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Switzerland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Switzerland.
Basel is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a monument, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Chapel Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Lion Monument Lucerne, one of the town’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Swiss Museum Of Transport.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Zurich. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Switzerland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Widder Restaurant in Zurich by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Widder Restaurant delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern french and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, acclaimed for its delectable sharing and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at The Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Widder Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Rio Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Switzerland.
Day 5
- Zurich
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Drive 1 km, 23 min
- Swiss National Museum
- Lindenhof
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Bahnhofstrasse
- Niederdorf
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Zurich. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Bahnhofstrasse, a street offering a different perspective on Zurich.
Start by visiting Swiss National Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lindenhof, another must-visit landmark and well-known historical landmark renowned for its romantic features.
Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Savor the flavors at Cantinetta Antinori, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Lokal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aurora. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zurich. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Eldorado, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gotthard Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. La Stanza is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zurich as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Zurich
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Drive 10 km, 46 min
- Zürich Zoo
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Grossmünster
- Zürich Opera House
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zurich!
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Zurich. Begin your sightseeing with Zürich Zoo. This notable zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kunsthaus Zürich, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Zurich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Grossmünster. This beloved church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Zürich Opera House, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zurich. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zurich that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zurich to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Zurich offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Alpenrose, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kafi Dihei, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Weisses Rössli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Zurich and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Babalu offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Nelson is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Zurich
- Basel
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Drive 197 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Üetliberg
- Uetliberg Lookout Tower
- Swiss Science Center Technorama
- Rhine Falls
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Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Switzerland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the hamlet of Sellenbüren. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Basel, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Üetliberg, an up-and-coming mountain range in the hamlet. Then, head to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring observation deck.
There are many interesting places to see in Zurich, and when you are ready for more, go to Swiss Science Center Technorama. This is one of the hamlet’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the science center, visit the famous Rhine Falls.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Switzerland at Basel. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Basel.
Savor the flavors at KLARA 13 AG, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Warteck Brewery Basel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Basel tonight.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Basel.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!
Day 8
- Basel - Departure day
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- Freie Strasse
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Basel.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Basel’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Freie Strasse, a street that captures the true essence of Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Basel or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Basel and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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