9-Day Road Trip in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy from Vienna to Braunau am Inn, Chur, Lugano, Venice, and Klagenfurt

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy 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 1 night.

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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Vienna is the magnificent Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. Around 38,136 visitors have rated this excellent sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.5 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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Vienna’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.

Dine in style at Aurora Rooftop Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, VERANDA boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Vienna.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tapete Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kruger’s American Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Your multi-country road trip in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy 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.

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Austria, Switzerland, and Italy, 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 Vienna in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Braunau am Inn, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable St. Stephen's Cathedral. This outstanding catholic cathedral and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 105,471 travelers, a visit to the remarkable St. Stephen's Cathedral is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Belvedere Palace Chapel is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This chapel and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 67,468 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing château, Schönbrunn Palace. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 54,108 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Schönbrunn Palace, an outstanding catholic cathedral, is one place you should visit while in Vienna considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 147,071 travelers.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Braunau am Inn. 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.

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 Braunau am Inn'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 town’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Jia's Asia Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Philoxenia - griechisches Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Indisches Restaurant Guru Braunau. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Braunau am Inn tonight.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - St. Gallen in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Chur where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Braunau am Inn, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of St. Gallen, Switzerland. Your travel time is around 3 hours 48 min.

Something that makes St. Gallen the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding cathedral, St. Gallen Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,157 visitors.

The famous Abbey Of Saint Gall is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of St. Gallen's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 3,731 travelers have rated this incredible benedictine abbey and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

St. Gallen is also home to the extraordinary Waaghaus, which boasts a 4 out of 5 star rating in 154 traveler reviews.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Chur. 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, Switzerland, and Italy.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at S'Pub Sunshine Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Frohsinn? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Pizzeria Brauerei as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Chur.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Hemingway, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Churchill Pub Chur is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Confetti Aperitif Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take in the ambiance of Chur 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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. Today's main destinations are Melide in Switzerland, 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 Lugano. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Chur’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Melide. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive in Melide, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Melide is the magnificent Swissminiatur. Around 6,758 visitors have rated this excellent miniature park and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pazzallo, 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 Melide to Pazzallo may take around 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pazzallo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated mountain and attraction in Pazzallo — Monte San Salvatore. About 1,048 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lugano, 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 Pazzallo to Lugano may take around 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lugano, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum building and attraction in Lugano — Lugano Arte E Cultura. About 4,125 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Parco Ciani is another top sight in Lugano that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved urban park in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,419 visitors.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Lugano’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lugano by booking a table at Flamel. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary, and seasonal cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Il Fermento, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Oops is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

As the night falls in Lugano, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Verona in Italy. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Venice, your home for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Verona, 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 Lugano to Verona may take around 2 hours 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Verona, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Castelvecchio Museum. This outstanding art museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 35,031 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 13,854 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Castelvecchio Museum is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Castelvecchio Bridge is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This arch bridge and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,156 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing opera house, Verona Arena, which hosts approximately 195,540 visitors per year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 123,818 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Ponte Pietra, an outstanding art museum, is one place you should visit while in Verona considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,284 travelers.

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

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, Switzerland, and Italy by rewarding yourself with a taste of Venice’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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Venice by booking a table at Local, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Venice, Wistèria shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary, and venetian cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Quadri is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Venice. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Al Parlamento, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Adagio offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Il Mercante provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Venice. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated footbridge and attraction in Venice — Bridge Of Sighs. About 18,223 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Doge's Palace is another top sight in Venice that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved palace in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors.

St Mark's Basilica is a spectacular cathedral and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Venice, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,439 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Piazza San Marco. Because of its allure and charm, around 152,982 visitors have rated this attraction and square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Rialto Bridge. Echoing its popularity, 141,666 travelers have awarded this famous stone bridge 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 Venice boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Italy.

Dine in style at Cantina Do Spade, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Trattoria Al Gazzettino boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Trattoria Bar Pontini. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Venice.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Irish Pub Venezia, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dolce Vita Venezia is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Devils Forest Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Venice in Italy. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Klagenfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Venice — Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo. About 11,745 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Teatro La Fenice is another top sight in Venice that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved opera house in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,677 visitors.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a spectacular art museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Venice, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,128 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari. Because of its allure and charm, around 9,174 visitors have rated this attraction and parish church 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 Klagenfurt. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Klagenfurt. 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 McMullens Klagenfurt, a top-rated dining destination in Klagenfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Baita, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Maruli 2. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Klagenfurt this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Bar Fassl. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gig Bar & Cafe, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Lido Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Austria, Switzerland, and Italy, 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 Klagenfurt in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vienna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Something that makes Klagenfurt the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Neuer Platz. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,518 visitors.

The famous Austria is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Klagenfurt's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 451 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Klagenfurt is also home to the extraordinary Klagenfurt Botanical Garden, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 424 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Reptilienzoo Happ. With an impressive average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from a total of 2,230 reviews, a visit to this wonderful zoo and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Vienna by securing a reservation at Amador. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative, and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Mraz & Sohn, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Steirereck im Stadtpark, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Miranda Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Josef Cocktailbar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Roberto American Bar Ii is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy! 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.

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, Switzerland, and Italy. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Maximize your last day in Austria and go on a shopping spree in Vienna’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Austria.

In Vienna, the extraordinary Vienna State Opera awaits. This attraction is a valued opera house that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,516 travelers' reviews.

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, Switzerland, and Italy.

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, Switzerland, and Italy with fond memories. Safe travels!