One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg, Innsbruck, Lucerne, and Munich
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Get ready for an exhilarating 8-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Austria, Germany, and Switzerland and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 5 nights in Austria, 1 night in Germany, and 1 night in Switzerland.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Austria, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Vienna and begin your adventure from there. Explore Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Germany. Immerse yourself in the allure of Munich, Alterschrofen, Hohenschwangau, and Waltenhofen, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Switzerland. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Lucerne.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Munich’s Nymphenburg Palace and Lucerne's iconic Chapel Bridge. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Vienna - Arrival day
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- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Vienna in Austria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Vienna for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Austria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Vienna before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Vienna 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral, 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 Vienna. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Austria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Vienna. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Aurora Rooftop Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try VERANDA? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Vienna.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Tapete Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Kruger’s American Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Your multi-country road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Vienna
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Drive 21 km, 59 min
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Belvedere Palace
- Prater
- Neubau
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On day 2, you will wake up in Vienna with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Vienna before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
A top thing to do today is to explore Neubau, a must-see neighborhood in Vienna. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Vienna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Schönbrunn Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant palace before continuing your journey. Belvedere Palace Chapel is your next stop. This spectacular palace is one of the best-rated sights in Vienna.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Prater. This mesmerizing amusement park is a sight to behold.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Vienna. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Austria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a highly-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Ofenloch, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flanagans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Miranda Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Josef Cocktailbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Roberto American Bar Ii ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
As the night falls in Vienna, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 3
- Vienna
- Salzburg
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Drive 302 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Salzburg Cathedral
- Mirabell Palace
- Mozartplatz
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On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Salzburg in Austria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Salzburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Vienna. Your adventure starts at Fortress Hohensalzburg, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Salzburg Cathedral. This locally renowned church is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Vienna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Mirabell Palace. This enchanting palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Mozartplatz is also worth visiting.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Salzburg of your choice.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Salzburg boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Austria.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss WeiherWirt. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Salzburg.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Harry Bär, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Darwin's Cafe Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 4
- Salzburg
- Innsbruck
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Drive 201 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Ambras Castle Innsbruck
- Bergisel Ski Jump
- Golden Roof
- Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Innsbruck in Austria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Innsbruck, your home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Salzburg today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Ambras Castle Innsbruck. This enchanting castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bergisel Ski Jump and learn what makes this breathtaking observation deck unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Golden Roof. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol. This locally renowned zoo is a highlight in Salzburg.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Innsbruck’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Innsbruck. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Austria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
Don’t miss out on dining at Stiftskeller, a top-rated dining destination in Innsbruck. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Thai-Li-Ba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Breakfast Club. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Innsbruck this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Bar Dinzler, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Music-bar Zappa provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Katzung offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 5
- Innsbruck
- Lucerne
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Drive 311 km, 4 hours 29 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Spreuerbrücke
- Chapel Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Lucerne where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Innsbruck promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Swiss Museum Of Transport. This photogenic museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Lion Monument Lucerne, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, one of the town’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Chapel Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lucerne. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Lucerne’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Valentino, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Weisses Schloss is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bolero. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lucerne tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar 58, known for its inviting atmosphere. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Penthouse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Lucerne
- Munich
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Drive 372 km, 4 hours 24 min
- Nymphenburg Palace
- Victuals Market
- Marienplatz
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Today's main destinations are Munich in Germany, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Munich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Lucerne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a food market, and a public square. Begin your adventure at Nymphenburg Palace. This is a captivating palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Viktualienmarkt, an impressive food market in Lucerne.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Marienplatz.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Munich. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Munich's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Munich has them.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Little London / Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Munich at Ginkgo, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Garçon offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Zephyr Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Take in the ambiance of Munich as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 7
- Munich
- Vienna
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Drive 629 km, 7 hours 47 min
- Schloss Bullachberg
- Marienbrücke
- St. Coloman
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On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Alterschrofen in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vienna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your day with a visit to Schloss Bullachberg. This worthwhile castle is a must-visit in the village.
One of the best things about exploring Munich 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 St. Coloman, an increasingly popular church in the village.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Vienna.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Vienna. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Puerstner, a top-rated dining spot in Vienna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vollpension, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Schwarzen Kameel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Vienna.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Loos American Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Brandauer Bierstube. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland! Enjoy your evening in Vienna to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 8
- Vienna - Departure day
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- Vienna State Opera
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Vienna before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
As your final day in Austria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Vienna's best shopping area, Kärntner Straße. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Austria. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Vienna State Opera, a historic opera house before you head out.
Get a last taste of Austria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Vienna and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
The time has come to say farewell to Vienna for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland with fond memories. Safe travels!
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