7-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling north to Basel and Zurich

On day 2 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 2 nights.

Unesco - Bern Old Town is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Zytglogge, another must-visit landmark and beloved historical landmark renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bern by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Bern Minster. This visually striking church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bern experience. We also recommend visiting Bear Pit, a well-known zoo.

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

Basel 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 Basel.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, roots is one of the best restaurants for modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Schall Und Rauch Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grenzwert Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 8 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Bern. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Middle Bridge is an ideal stop early in the day. This often recommended historical landmark is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Basel Minster, which may be one of the most inviting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Basel on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Tinguely Fountain, an intriguing art installation in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Basel Zoo.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a highly-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hasenburg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Smilla Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Consum, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of L'atelier, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Say good night to Basel and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Riehen, Neuhausen, and Schaffhausen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Basel and set your GPS to Riehen. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Riehen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Riehen is Beyeler Foundation, a locally appreciated art gallery that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 1 hour 29 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Rhine Falls, a spectacular waterfall in Neuhausen. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Neuhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schaffhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Schaffhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Museum Zu Allerheiligen, a beloved museum that everyone visiting Schaffhausen should see. Next, head to Waldfriedhof Schaffhausen. This awe-inspiring cemetery is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Widder Restaurant in Zurich by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Widder Restaurant offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing sharing and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Restaurant, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Switzerland.

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Zurich.

Zurich is brimming with adventures.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Zürich Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Grossmünster and learn what makes this picture-perfect church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Lindenhof. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Swiss National Museum. This often recommended museum is a highlight in Zurich.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Lokal, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aurora, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Eldorado, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gotthard Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, La Stanza ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Lucerne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Lucerne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucerne beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Lion Monument Lucerne, a locally renowned monument that everyone visiting Lucerne should see. Next, head to Swiss Museum Of Transport. This heritage-rich museum is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Chapel Bridge, a visually striking historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers.

Savor the day by heading to Titlis Cliff Walk, a notable canopy walk that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bern by reserving a table at ZOE. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Steinhalle, recognized for its delicious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Wein & Sein, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bern. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bern, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Adrianos Bar & Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!