9-Day Road Trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland from Vienna to Munich, Zurich, St. Gallen, and Salzburg

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.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated metro station and attraction in Vienna — Stadtpark. About 27,294 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Vienna boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Austria.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Vienna by booking a table at Amador. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Mraz & Sohn, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Steirereck im Stadtpark, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kruger’s American Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Josef Cocktailbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Loos American Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Vienna. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A tour of Vienna is not complete without a visit to the famous Belvedere Palace Chapel. This incredible chapel and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 66,332 travelers.

Make the most of your Vienna travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Museum of Natural History Vienna. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 33,317 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Hofburg Palace for an experience worth remembering. This local castle and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 47,034 visitors.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Vienna's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Vollpension, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zum Schwarzen Kameel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Plachutta Wollzeile. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Vienna tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kleinod, known for its lively atmosphere. Needle Vinyl Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Roberto American Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Vienna in Austria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gemeinde Melk, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Vienna to Gemeinde Melk may take around 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Melk, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated château and attraction in Vienna — Schönbrunn Palace. About 53,579 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Schönbrunn Palace is another top sight in Vienna that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved château in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 145,237 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gemeinde Melk, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Vienna to Gemeinde Melk may take around 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Melk, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Gemeinde Melk is the magnificent Melk Abbey. Around 12,473 visitors have rated this excellent abbey and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Munich. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Munich's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Discover the culinary delights of Munich by securing a reservation at Atelier. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative french cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try EssZimmer, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Zephyr Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Pusser's, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Boilerman Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland has in store for you! You will be staying in Munich for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated automobile museum and attraction in Munich — BMW Museum. About 35,349 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular BMW Welt is another top sight in Munich that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved music venue in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 31,941 visitors.

Olympiapark is a spectacular olympic park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Munich, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 68,103 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent English Garden. Because of its allure and charm, around 61,616 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Eisbachwelle. Echoing its popularity, 17,940 travelers have awarded this famous sightseeing destination and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Munich boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Austria.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Andechser am Dom, a top-rated dining spot in Munich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Augustiner-Keller, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Nur Einmal Leben. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Munich.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Keg Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Havana Club for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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!

On day 5 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 Munich in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Munich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zurich, Switzerland. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Switzerland. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Munich, including the outstanding Marienplatz. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,139 reviews, this fascinating square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Munich is also home to the captivating Viktualienmarkt, a local sightseeing destination considered one of the highlights of the city. About 58,191 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Deutsches Museum is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Munich. This extraordinary national museum and tourist hot spot hosts more than 1,250,000 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 34,643 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Stachus will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing square and attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 24,791 reviews.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Zurich of your choice.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Zurich. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, recognized for its delicious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rio Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Stanza offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland! Enjoy your evening in Zurich to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Zurich in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in St. Gallen, your home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zurich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to St. Gallen may take around 1 hour 5 min. Upon your arrival in St. Gallen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Zurich is the fantastic Lindenhof. As an appreciated square and local gem in the area, Lindenhof has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Grossmünster. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Kunsthaus Zürich, a standout art museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,594 reviewers, so it's no surprise that it attracts as many as 382,603 visitors annually.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Zürich Zoo. This zoo is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 visitor reviews.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in St. Gallen.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central St. Gallen. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in St. Gallen by reserving a table at Netts Schützengarten. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of international and country cooking cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Einstein Gourmet, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Jägerhof, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in St. Gallen.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like news Café Music Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Baracca Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Paparazzo Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 2 vibrant destinations - Hohenschwangau in Germany and St. Gallen in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Salzburg where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Hohenschwangau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of St. Gallen behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min. Hohenschwangau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

In Hohenschwangau, the extraordinary Marienbrücke awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,397 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Hohenschwangau is the spectacular Neuschwanstein Castle. This attraction is a sightseeing destination that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 89,719 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

When you’ve had your share of St. Gallen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hohenschwangau, Germany. Your travel time is around 2 hours 5 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in St. Gallen, including the outstanding Abbey of Saint Gall. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,646 reviews, this fascinating benedictine abbey and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the village.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Salzburg. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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 Salzburg’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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Salzburg by securing a table at The Glass Garden. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ikarus, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover SENNS. Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Salzburg. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Harry Bär offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Salzburg. Darwin's Cafe Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the night falls in Salzburg, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Today's main destinations are Salzburg in Austria, 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 Vienna. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Salzburg and set your GPS to Vienna. 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 3 hours 24 min. Upon reaching Vienna, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Salzburg is the magnificent Fortress Hohensalzburg. Around 43,309 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Mozartplatz on this leg of your adventure in Austria. This attraction is a well-known square that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 12,235 travelers.

The remarkable Mirabell Palace is known to be one of the best places to visit in Salzburg, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,688 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Salzburg by exploring the captivating Hellbrunn Palace. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,017 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Salzburg exploration list!

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Vienna’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

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.

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

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 9 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 you approach the end of your journey in Austria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Vienna’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Austria, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Austria with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Reinthaler's Beisl, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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 9-day European road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland with fond memories. Safe travels!