7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Lucerne and Interlaken

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Basel and Lucerne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lucerne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Start your day at Basel Minster. This culturally significant church is an intriguing place to see in Basel. Then, wander over to Basel Historical Museum. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Kunsthalle Basel. This eye-catching art gallery 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, Tinguely Fountain is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art installation, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Basel Zoo. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular zoo.

Lucerne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. Lucerne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lion Monument Lucerne, a well-known monument known for its breathtaking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lucerne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Valentino, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Weisses Schloss boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bolero. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lucerne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar 58, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Penthouse, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Lucerne. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lucerne, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

A visit to Old Town (Altstadt) is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

To truly experience Lucerne, make sure to drop by Swiss Museum Of Transport. This captivating museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Chapel Bridge, one of the town’s best highlights.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Mount Pilatus, an up-and-coming mountain range that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lucerne and your accommodation.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ampersand, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Axalp, Schwanden bei Brienz, Meiringen, and Schattenhalb. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Interlaken, where will spend 2 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Axalp.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Axalp. This car ride takes around 52 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Giessbach Waterfalls, a frequently visited waterfall that everyone visiting Axalp should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Axalp and set your GPS to Schwanden bei Brienz. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Schwanden bei Brienz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, an often recommended museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Meiringen. This car ride takes around 18 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Aare Gorge, a frequently visited canyon known for its enchanting features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Interlaken. Interlaken offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Interlaken is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Interlaken.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Taj Palace offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, OX Restaurant & Grill is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Interlaken.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Brasserie 17, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

Wake up to day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Mürren and Lauterbrunnen. With 1 night to stay in Interlaken, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Mürren, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Interlaken to Mürren may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Mürren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Mürren is Trümmelbach Falls, a frequently visited waterfall that draws attention for its serene features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lauterbrunnen. This car ride takes around 4 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Poblado Lauterbrunnen, an often recommended waterfall in Lauterbrunnen. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Wengernalpbahn. This up-and-coming heritage railway is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Interlaken.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Interlaken. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Horn, a highly-rated dining destination in Interlaken. If you're eager to try something different, consider Indian Tandoori, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chalet Beizli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Interlaken this evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Bern. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Basel, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bern, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Interlaken to Bern may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bern, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, a worthwhile museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Bundesplatz, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

Next, explore Zytglogge, yet another underrated place to see in the area. After the historical landmark, make time to go to Unesco - Bern Old Town. This visually striking historical landmark is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Bear Pit, a popular zoo you won’t want to miss.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Basel. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Basel's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Essential by Dorint Basel City, 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 Hasenburg, 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 Smilla Café, a hidden gem nestled in Basel. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Consum, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out L'atelier, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Basel and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland.