9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria With Itinerary from Venice to Milan, Lucerne, and Innsbruck
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Description
Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 9-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Italy, Switzerland, and Austria guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.
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 3 nights in Italy, 2 nights in Switzerland, and 3 nights in Austria.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Italy, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Venice and begin your adventure from there. Explore Venice, Milan, and Verona, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Switzerland. Immerse yourself in the allure of Lucerne and Neuhausen, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Austria. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Innsbruck and Salzburg.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Lucerne’s 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria 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 9-day self-drive adventure in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Venice - Arrival day
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- Teatro La Fenice
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Venice in Italy. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Venice for 1 night.
Catch an early flight to Italy to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Venice 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 Venice is the magnificent Teatro La Fenice. Around 10,677 visitors have rated this excellent opera house and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Venice. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Italy. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Venice. 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 delicious dinner at Bauer Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Osteria Le Guglie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Corner Pub. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Al Parlamento, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Caffe Rosso offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Adagio. 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria 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
- Venice
- Milan
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Piazza San Marco
- St Mark's Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. Today's main destinations are Venice in Italy, 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 Milan. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated public square and attraction in Venice — Piazza San Marco. About 152,982 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
The popular St Mark's Basilica is another top sight in Venice that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved church in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 visitors.
Doge's Palace is a spectacular palace and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Venice, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 24,775 enchanted visitors.
As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Bridge Of Sighs. Because of its allure and charm, around 18,223 visitors have rated this attraction and monument an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Milan of your choice.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Milan boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Italy.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Seta by Antonio Guida, renowned for its delectable international and contemporary 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 Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite italian contemporary and modern 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 Milan.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Nottingham Forest is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Armani/bamboo Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mag Cafe. 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria! Enjoy your evening in Milan to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 3
- Milan
- Lucerne
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Duomo di Milano
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- La Scala
- Castello Sforzesco
- Sempione Park
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On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, 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 Milan in Italy. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lucerne, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Milan today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Duomo Di Milano Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 138,554 visitors and attracts around 341,609 curious travelers annually.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii. This incredible attraction and shopping mall holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 91,394 visitors.
According to travelers in Milan, the extraordinary La Scala is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 visitors.
As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible castle, Sforzesco Castle Art Library. Up to 68,714 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular park, Parco Sempione. This attraction is rated an average 4.6 out of 5 stars among 72,914 visitors.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Lucerne. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Lucerne. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Switzerland 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and classic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Colonnade, celebrated for its delectable modern french and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar 58, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Penthouse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Take in the ambiance of Lucerne 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 4
- Lucerne
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Drive 9 km, 51 min
- Spreuerbrücke
- Museggmauer
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Swiss Museum of Transport
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On day 4, you will wake up in Lucerne with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Lucerne before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated historical landmark and attraction in Lucerne — Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. About 4,153 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
The popular Museggmauer is another top sight in Lucerne that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved historical landmark in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,258 visitors.
Lion Monument Lucerne is a spectacular monument and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Lucerne, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,757 enchanted visitors.
As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Swiss Museum Of Transport. Because of its allure and charm, around 11,843 visitors have rated this attraction and museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. More than 562,605 people visit this attraction each year, and today is your opportunity to be one of the lucky travelers to explore it.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Lucerne. 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ampersand, a highly-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.
Take in the ambiance of Lucerne 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 5
- Lucerne
- Neuhausen
- Innsbruck
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Drive 398 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Jesuitenkirche Hl. Franz Xaver
- Chapel Bridge
- Rhine Falls
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lucerne in Switzerland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Innsbruck, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Lucerne is the fantastic Jesuit Church, Lucerne. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, Jesuit Church, Lucerne has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,696 reviews.
Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Chapel Bridge. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,595 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Neuhausen, 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 Lucerne to Neuhausen may take around 1 hour 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neuhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
In Neuhausen, the extraordinary Rhine Falls awaits. This attraction is a valued waterfall that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 71,797 travelers' reviews.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Innsbruck. 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.
As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Innsbruck's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Austria 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, Innsbruck has them.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Stiftskeller, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Thai-Li-Ba? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Breakfast Club as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Innsbruck.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Bar Dinzler offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Music-bar Zappa is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe Katzung is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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 6
- Innsbruck
- Salzburg
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Drive 379 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Hellbrunn Palace
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Mirabell Palace
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On day 6 of your European tour in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you’ll start and end your day in Salzburg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Innsbruck for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Salzburg in Austria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Innsbruck, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salzburg may take around 2 hours 4 min. Upon your arrival in Salzburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated palace and attraction in Salzburg — Hellbrunn Palace. About 19,177 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
The popular Fortress Hohensalzburg is another top sight in Salzburg that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved castle in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,742 visitors.
Mirabell Palace is a spectacular palace and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Salzburg, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,975 enchanted visitors.
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.
Dine in style at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Central. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Innsbruck.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Montagu Bed & Beers after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dom Cafe-bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Plansch Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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 7
- Innsbruck
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Drive 6 km, 35 min
- Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum
- Golden Roof
- Innsbrucker Hofgarten
- Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
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Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Innsbruck. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Innsbruck is the fantastic Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 784 reviews.
Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Golden Roof. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,922 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!
Join countless others in discovering the allure of Innsbrucker Hofgarten, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,897 reviewers.
Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol. This zoo is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,180 visitor reviews.
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 Innsbruck'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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Bon Alpina, an iconic dining spot in Innsbruck. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of SINNE. Theater & Restaurant in unsichtbaren Kulissen. , a popular restaurant in Innsbruck. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Glorious Bastards Innsbruck, a hidden gem nestled in Innsbruck. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Culinarium In The Old Town after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Liquid Diary, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Bar Moustache also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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 8
- Innsbruck
- Verona
- Venice
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Drive 389 km, 4 hours 57 min
- Castelvecchio Museum
- Verona Arena
- piazza delle Erbe
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 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 1 night.
Set your GPS to Verona, Italy and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Verona beckons with new experiences!
In Verona, the extraordinary Castelvecchio Museum awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,854 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 35,031 visitors every year, the amazing Castelvecchio Museum is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.
Another of the best travel destinations in Verona, which gets around 195,540 annual visits, is the spectacular Verona Arena. This attraction is a stadium that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 123,818 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Piazza Delle Erbe. This local public square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,777 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Venice. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Venice. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
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.
Keep the evening going at Il Mercante, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Irish Pub Venezia, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Ai Stagneri, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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!
Day 9
- Venice - Departure day
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- Rialto Bridge
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On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Venice 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Make the most of your final day in Italy by visiting Venice’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Mercerie. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Italy. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Venice, including the outstanding Rialto Bridge. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 141,666 reviews, this fascinating historical landmark and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
Get a last taste of Italy’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Venice 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria.
Savor the flavors at Osteria Alla Staffa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bistrot de Venise beckons with its unique menu offerings.
The time has come to say farewell to Venice 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria with fond memories. Safe travels!
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