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

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Zurich. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Niederdorf, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Your adventure in Zurich is only getting started when you visit Kunsthaus Zürich, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Grossmünster. This worthwhile church is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Lindenhof. This romantic historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Eldorado, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gotthard Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. La Stanza 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 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Lucerne in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, 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 Lucerne. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Swiss Museum Of Transport, a well-known museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne and admire its detailed features.

When you’re ready, continue to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an increasingly popular historical landmark beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Chapel Bridge, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

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 Lucerne’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Valentino, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Weisses Schloss offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bolero. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar 58 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Penthouse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Take in the ambiance of Lucerne 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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Schwanden bei Brienz in Switzerland. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Interlaken, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Schwanden bei Brienz, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lucerne to Schwanden bei Brienz may take around 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Schwanden bei Brienz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum, a worthwhile museum in Schwanden bei Brienz. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Schwanden bei Brienz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Axalp. Your travel time is around 7 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Giessbach Waterfalls, a locally appreciated waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Axalp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beatenberg. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Savor the day by heading to St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, an intriguing cave system that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Brasserie 17, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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.

Bern’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Interlaken behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Bern welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rose Garden Bern. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Bear Pit. This locally renowned zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Bundesplatz. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square. Next, take your journey to Zytglogge, an underrated historical landmark. Conclude your sightseeing at Unesco - Bern Old Town, known for its visually striking features.

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

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 Bern.

Dine in style at Brasserie Obstberg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Süder boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Leichtsinn. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bern.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Zum Kuckuck, known for its inviting atmosphere. Piazza Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Taube provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the night falls in Bern, 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.

On day 6 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 Basel in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Basel. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Basel Zoo and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Fine Arts Museum Basel, another highlight in Basel. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Basel Minster, a romantic church.

Nearby, you will also find Middle Bridge. This underrated historical landmark is a top place to see in the area.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Basel’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 lovely dining experience at Cargo Kultur Bar, a popular restaurant in Basel. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Basel at KOHLMANNS, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated tibits. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Basel tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Schall Und Rauch Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Grenzwert Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 8 Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Basel, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Germany. This drive usually takes around 55 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kanonenplatz, a curiosity-inducing observation deck that everyone visiting Freiburg im Breisgau should see. Next, head to Stadtgarten Freiburg. This mesmerizing park is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Freiburger Münsterbauverein, a culturally significant church popular among locals as well as travelers. Bertoldsbrunnen is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this curiosity-inducing public square before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Martin's Gate, an instagrammable monument and a top attraction in the city.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Germany's delectable cuisine at one of Freiburg im Breisgau's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Oberkirch, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Süden offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, El Gallo Freiburg is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Am Funkeneck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Beat Bar Butzemann is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Heidelberg in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pleikartsförster Hof, your home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Freiburg im Breisgau and set your GPS to Heidelberg. 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 2 hours 2 min. Upon reaching Heidelberg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Neckarwiese (heidelberg) is an increasingly popular park we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Old Bridge Heidelberg, an enchanting historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Heidelberger Marktplatz, a romantic public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Heidelberg Castle, a culturally significant and truly unique castle.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Pleikartsförster Hof. 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.

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

Set your GPS to Stuttgart and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stuttgart beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Wilhelma, a locally renowned zoo that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Mercedes-benz Museum, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

Next, explore Stuttgart Tv Tower, yet another interesting place to see in the area. After the observation deck, make time to go to Schloßplatz. This visually striking public square is well worth the visit.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Stuttgart. 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, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Stuttgart. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Germany in a new light.

Savor the flavors at Tavern Waldhorn, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Le Théâtre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wirtshaus Garbe. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Stuttgart tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Petit Coq, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Jigger & Spoon. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Schwarz Weiß Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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