9-Day Road Trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria from Venice to Milan, Lugano, Zurich, and Innsbruck

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 of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Teatro La Fenice. This outstanding opera house and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 10,677 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Teatro La Fenice is worth pages in your travel diary.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Venice. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Venice. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Italy 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 an outstanding dining experience at Local, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Wistèria, known for its delicious contemporary, and venetian cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Venice is Quadri, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

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.

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.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Venice today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Piazza San Marco. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular St Mark's Basilica. This incredible attraction and cathedral holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 18,439 visitors.

According to travelers in Venice, the extraordinary Doge's Palace is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and palace gets around 318,104 visits annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,775 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible footbridge, Bridge of Sighs. Up to 18,223 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Milan, 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 Venice to Milan may take around 2 hours 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Milan, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Milan by reserving a table at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec. Known for its 3-star Michelin reputation, Enrico Bartolini al Mudec captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Nottingham Forest after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Armani/Bamboo Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mag Cafe is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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 Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Milan, including the outstanding Duomo di Milano Museum. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 138,554 reviews and welcoming more than 341,609 visitors each year, this fascinating art museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Milan is also home to the captivating Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a local commercial gallery considered one of the highlights of the city. About 91,394 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary La Scala is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Milan. This extraordinary opera house and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,219 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Sforzesco Castle Art Library will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing library and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 68,714 reviews.

Soak in Milan's rich culture at the fantastic Parco Sempione. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Milan is its overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 72,914 visitor reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Lugano. 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Lugano’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.

Discover the culinary delights of Lugano by securing a reservation at Flamel. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of contemporary, and seasonal cuisine. Alternatively, Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Laura. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lugano tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Il Fermento, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Oops offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

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

A tour of Lugano is not complete without a visit to the famous Parco Ciani. This incredible urban park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,419 travelers.

Set your GPS to Lucerne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lucerne beckons with new experiences!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated technology museum and attraction in Lucerne — Swiss Museum of Transport. About 11,843 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Lion Monument Lucerne is another top sight in Lucerne that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved sculpture in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,757 visitors.

Chapel Bridge is a spectacular sightseeing destination and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Lucerne, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,595 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. Because of its allure and charm, around 4,153 visitors have rated this attraction and wooden bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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 sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Zurich's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Switzerland 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, Zurich has them.

Begin your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french, and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing, and modern 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 The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Widder Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Rio Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, CP First - Cocktailbar & Lounge 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 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Zurich 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.

Lindenhof is a travelers’ favorite in Zurich, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,519 visitors.

In Zurich, don’t miss Zürich Zoo, a great zoo and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,599 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zurich and set your GPS to Neuhausen. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Neuhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Neuhausen is the fantastic Rhine Falls. As an appreciated waterfall and local gem in the area, Rhine Falls has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 71,797 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 day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Innsbruck. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to book a table at Stiftskeller, a popular restaurant in Innsbruck. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Innsbruck at Thai-Li-Ba, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Breakfast Club. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Innsbruck tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Bar Dinzler. Alternatively, go to music-bar ZAPPA, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe Katzung provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Innsbruck 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!

Wake up and see what day 6 of your great European road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Innsbruck for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

In Innsbruck, the extraordinary Bergisel Ski Jump awaits. This attraction is a valued sightseeing destination that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,708 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Innsbruck is the spectacular Triumphpforte. This attraction is a triumphal arch that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,451 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Golden Roof. This local building and wonder has an overall review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 18,922 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Innsbrucker Hofgarten is another attraction you might want to add to your Innsbruck exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,897 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol. More than a popular zoo and attraction, Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Innsbruck. Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,180 traveler reviews.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a top-rated dining destination in Innsbruck. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Central. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Innsbruck this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Montagu Bed & Beers. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dom Cafe-Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Plansch Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in Innsbruck, 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.

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Innsbruck for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Lähn in Austria.

Set your GPS to Lähn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lähn beckons with new experiences!

In Lähn, the extraordinary Highline179 awaits. This attraction is a valued sightseeing destination that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,794 travelers' reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lähn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gemeinde Ehrwald. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Gemeinde Ehrwald is not complete without a visit to the famous Tyrolean Zugspitze Cable Car. This incredible point of interest and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,224 travelers.

Make the most of your Gemeinde Ehrwald travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Ehrwalder Almbahn. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,460 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Marktgemeinde Wattens, 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 Gemeinde Ehrwald to Marktgemeinde Wattens may take around 1 hour 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Marktgemeinde Wattens, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

In Marktgemeinde Wattens, the extraordinary Swarovski Kristallwelten awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,185 travelers' 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Bon Alpina, a top-rated dining destination in Innsbruck. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SINNE. Theater & Restaurant in unsichtbaren Kulissen. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Glorious Bastards Innsbruck. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Innsbruck this evening.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Verona in Italy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Venice where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Innsbruck, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Italy! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Verona may take around 3 hours 19 min. Upon your arrival in Verona, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Verona, the extraordinary Castelvecchio Bridge awaits. This attraction is a valued arch bridge that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,156 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Verona, which gets around 195,540 annual visits, is the spectacular Verona Arena. This attraction is an opera house 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 square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,777 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Ponte Pietra is another attraction you might want to add to your Verona exploration itinerary. This deck arch bridge is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,284 reviews.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Venice. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Italy 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 Cantina Do Spade, a highly-rated dining destination in Venice. If you're eager to try something different, consider Trattoria Al Gazzettino, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Bar Pontini. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Venice this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Irish Pub Venezia, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dolce Vita Venezia, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Devils Forest Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 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.

As your final day in Italy unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Venice's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Italy.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated stone bridge and attraction in Venice — Rialto Bridge. About 141,666 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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!