10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Constance

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Zurich in Switzerland. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Swiss National Museum makes a great addition to your morning plans. This intriguing museum is an eye-catching place to see in Zurich. Continue your discovery at Grossmünster, a stunning church with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zurich.

When you’ve had your share of Zurich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lucerne. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Swiss Museum Of Transport is a popular museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Lion Monument Lucerne, a breathtaking monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Chapel Bridge, a culturally significant historical landmark.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in 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 Switzerland and Germany.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Valentino, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Weisses Schloss, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolero. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar 58, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Penthouse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Switzerland and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Lucerne to the fullest!

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Interlaken, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lauterbrunnen. This car ride takes around 1 hour 22 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Staubbachfall Waterfall and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Poblado Lauterbrunnen, another highlight in Lauterbrunnen. When you’re done exploring the waterfall, continue to Wengernalpbahn, a romantic heritage railway.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lauterbrunnen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Grindelwald. This drive usually takes around 25 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Outdoor - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald, an up-and-coming canyon that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Interlaken. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Switzerland in a new light.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Taj Palace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at OX Restaurant & Grill as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Interlaken.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Brasserie 17, known for its lively atmosphere.

Take in the ambiance of Interlaken as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Mürren in Switzerland. You will return to Interlaken for your remaining 1 night in the town later today.

After soaking in Interlaken’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mürren. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Mürren, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Trümmelbach Falls and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Mürrenbachfall, another highlight in Mürren.

When you arrive in Lauterbrunnen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Spy World - Schilthorn Piz Gloria and explore the eye-catching features.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Interlaken. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzeria Horn, a top-rated dining destination in Interlaken. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Indian Tandoori, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Chalet Beizli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Interlaken this evening.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany. Today's main destinations are Bern 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Interlaken, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bern. This drive usually takes around 43 min.

Rose Garden Bern is a curiosity-inducing botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Bear Pit, an idyllic zoo that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Bundesplatz, a historic public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Zytglogge, a picture-perfect and truly unique historical landmark. End your sightseeing at Unesco - Bern Old Town, a locally appreciated historical landmark that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Bern’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 Switzerland and Germany.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie Obstberg, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Süder, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Leichtsinn. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Zum Kuckuck, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Piazza Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Taube likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Thun in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Basel, your home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Thun. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Thun is Thun Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws attention for its respected features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Thun and set your GPS to Basel. 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 1 hour 24 min. Upon reaching Basel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Basel Zoo. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Basel Minster. This increasingly popular church is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Tinguely Fountain. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art installation. Next, take your journey to Middle Bridge, an underrated historical landmark.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Switzerland and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Basel.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cargo Kultur Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, KOHLMANNS offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, tibits is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Basel.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Schall Und Rauch Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grenzwert Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 8 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate day 6 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 7 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Freiburg im Breisgau where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Freiburg im Breisgau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basel behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Freiburg im Breisgau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Seepark Betzenhausen, an increasingly popular park in Freiburg im Breisgau. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Stadtgarten Freiburg. This intriguing park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Europaplatz is an excellent choice. Next, continue your sightseeing at the notable Freiburger Münsterbauverein and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Bertoldsbrunnen, a visually striking public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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 Switzerland and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Freiburg im Breisgau’s local cuisine.

Dine in style at Hotel Oberkirch, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Süden boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out El Gallo Freiburg. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Am Funkeneck, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Beat Bar Butzemann is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Constance in Germany. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Constance, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you explore Constance’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Constance, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Freiburg im Breisgau to Constance may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Constance, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Island Mainau, a well-known botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Constance, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Freiburg im Breisgau to Constance may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Constance, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Herosé-park, a curiosity-inducing park that everyone visiting Constance should see. Next, head to Münster Unserer Lieben Frau. This breathtaking church is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Stadtgarten, an idyllic park popular among locals as well as travelers. Kaiserbrunnen is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular point of interest before you continue your journey.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Constance. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Don’t miss out on dining at Defne, a top-rated dining destination in Constance. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Il Boccone, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Schwarze Katz. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Constance this evening.

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

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 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Schaffhausen in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Constance’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 49 min. When you arrive in Schaffhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Museum Zu Allerheiligen. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen. This worthwhile monastery is a traveler-favorite in the town.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rhine Falls and explore the eye-catching features.

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

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Eldorado, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gotthard Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Stanza provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the night falls in Zurich, 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.