30 days in Basel & Zurich Itinerary

Situated where the Swiss, German, and French borders meet, Basel is considered the hub of Dreilandereck, this "three countries corner." Its location makes Basel a center of culture and history, brimming with important theaters and museums.

Step out of the city life by going to Aare River and Twannbachschlucht. Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Basel: Einsiedelei St. Verena (in Soleure), Biel (Taubenlochschlucht & Bozingenberg) and Bern (Bundesplatz, Clock Tower - Zytglogge, &more). There's still lots to do: identify plant and animal life at Creux du Van, don't miss a visit to Rheinufer Basel, stop by Basel's Old Town, and walk around Kannenfeldpark.

For other places to visit, more things to do, and other tourist information, go to the Basel online holiday planner.

Washington DC, USA to Basel is an approximately 15-hour flight. You can also fly. The time zone difference moving from Eastern Standard Time to Central European Standard Time is 6 hours. Expect slightly colder temperatures when traveling from Washington DC in August; daily highs in Basel reach 79°F and lows reach 56°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 17th (Mon) early enough to drive to Zurich.

The financial hub of Switzerland, Zurich is most often associated with money and banks.

Take a break from the city and head to Mt Pilatus and Grindelwald-First. Venture out of the city with trips to Winterthur (Kunst Museum Winterthur & Eschenbergturm), Rhine Falls (in Neuhausen am Rheinfall) and Lucerne (Lake Lucerne, Hofkirche, &more). And it doesn't end there: explore the activities along Lake Zurich, admire the sheer force of Trümmelbachfälle, admire the masterpieces at Museum of Art (Kunsthaus Zurich), and take in the awesome beauty at Harderkulm.

To find traveler tips, where to stay, photos, and other tourist information, you can read our Zurich trip itinerary planner.

Drive from Basel to Zurich in 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. August in Zurich sees daily highs of 76°F and lows of 57°F at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 5th (Sat) so you can fly back home.