Can I bring my own bike?

Yes! You can either bring your own bike or rent one fully equipped for the terrain.

How hard is the route?

This is a Grade 3 (Hard) cycling tour — expect long distances, climbs, and alpine passes. Good physical shape is recommended.

What if my bike breaks down?

A full service set is provided. If major repairs are needed, roadside assistance and replacement bikes are available.

How does luggage transfer work?

Your luggage is collected every morning from your hotel and delivered to the next one by 6 PM.

Daily breakfast is included. Lunch and dinner can easily be found along the route.

Absolutely! A single room surcharge applies and can be selected during booking.

What’s the accommodation like?

All hotels are 3–4 stars, offering comfort, Wi-Fi, and hearty breakfasts.

Cycling from Basel to Lugano – The Ultimate North-South Swiss Adventure

From the vibrant city of Basel on the French-German-Swiss border to the sun-kissed shores of Lake Lugano, this unforgettable cycling journey takes you through Switzerland’s most enchanting landscapes — crossing mountains, lakes, and valleys in a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty.

Cost

Cost Includes

6 nights in comfortable 3–4 star hotels
1 night in Gotthardpass mountain hostel (private room, shared facilities)
Daily breakfast
Standard bike rental with equipment (optional upgrade)
Boat trip from Beckenried to Flüelen (incl. bikes)
Luggage transport between hotels
Detailed maps, route descriptions, and GPS app access (offline)
24-hour service hotline (local & international)

Cost Excludes

Transportation to/from Switzerland
Train tickets for bikes (Cadenazzo–Rivera-Bironico and Bioggio–Molinazzo–Lugano), approx. CHF 5
Handling fee: €20
Tourist tax (if applicable)

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Experience the soul of Switzerland on two wheels! The North–South Route connects the cosmopolitan energy of Basel with the Mediterranean charm of Lugano. Over eight magical days, cycle past peaceful rivers, historic castles, majestic Alpine passes, and the glimmering waters of Lucerne, Maggiore, and Lugano.
This self-guided cycling holiday is ideal for explorers who crave freedom, nature, and challenge — with full logistics handled for you. Ride at your own pace, while your luggage travels effortlessly between charming hotels.

Trip Highlights

Ride the iconic North-South Route across Switzerland — 370 km of breathtaking beauty
Conquer the legendary Gotthard Pass and coast down the scenic Tremola Road
Marvel at the UNESCO fortresses of Bellinzona
Enjoy a tranquil boat ride across Lake Lucerne
Cycle through charming medieval towns and lush vineyards
Feel the contrast between northern alpine freshness and southern Ticino’s Mediterranean flair
Stay in comfortable 3–4 star hotels with daily breakfast and luggage transfers
Explore at your own rhythm with offline GPS navigation and full support

Day 01 :

Arrival in Basel

Welcome to Basel — where three countries meet! Check into your hotel and receive your detailed maps, GPS access, and bike (if rented). Spend the rest of the day strolling along the Rhine or exploring Basel’s colorful Old Town.

Day 02 :

Basel → Aarau (58 km)

Leave the buzz of Basel behind as you glide through Liestal and the Ergolztal valley. Feel the contrast as the lively city fades into the quiet beauty of the Jura mountains. Ride through Jurapark Aargau, ending with a thrilling descent to charming Aarau.

Day 03 :

Aarau → Lucerne (57 km)

Cycle through the green Suhrental valley, flanked by the Alps to the south and the Jura mountains to the north. Pass orchards and the peaceful shores of Lake Sempach, before reaching the storybook city of Lucerne, crowned by its medieval bridge and lake views.

Day 04 :

Lucerne → Amsteg (42 km)

Ride alongside the glittering Lake Lucerne, one of Switzerland’s most stunning lakes. Cross into Urnerland, where majestic peaks and winding roads make every kilometer a feast for the eyes.

Day 05 :

Amsteg → Gotthard Pass (35 km)

Today’s challenge — the legendary Gotthard Pass! Follow the roaring Reuss River through the Schöllenen Gorge and cross the mythical Devil’s Bridge (Teufelsbrücke). Your night’s rest awaits at the summit in a cozy mountain hostel with private rooms.

Day 06 :

Gotthard Pass → Bellinzona (77 km)

Descend into the sun-drenched Leventina Valley, where chestnut trees and vineyards announce the arrival of Ticino. Cycle past riverbanks and old villages until you reach Bellinzona, famous for its three medieval castles.

Day 07 :

Bellinzona → Lugano (37 km)

A scenic ride to Cadenazzo leads to a short train ascent to Monte Ceneri. From here, breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore unfold. Glide through Ticino’s gentle landscapes until you reach the tranquil Lake Lugano — the perfect ending to an epic journey.

Day 08 :

Departure or Extension

Your adventure ends after breakfast. Choose to return home — or stay longer to enjoy the Italian ambiance of Lugano.

Cycling from Basel to Lugano – The Ultimate North-South Swiss Adventure

Duration

Tour Type

Cycling from Basel to Lugano – The Ultimate North-South Swiss Adventure