12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland and Austria With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne, Bern, Lausanne, Geneva, and Innsbruck

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Switzerland and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Zurich for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

To truly experience Zurich, make sure to drop by Zürich Zoo. This captivating zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kunsthaus Zürich, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Grossmünster, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Zurich. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Zürich Opera House. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this opera house offers.

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.

Dine in style at Cantinetta Antinori, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Lokal boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Aurora. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zurich.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Eldorado, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gotthard Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Stanza is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lucerne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zurich to Lucerne may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Swiss Museum Of Transport, a captivating 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 historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an underrated 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.

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

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

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar 58, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Penthouse, another top-rated place in the area.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland and Austria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Bern in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bern where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lucerne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bern. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rose Garden Bern, an up-and-coming botanical garden known for its mesmerizing features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Bear Pit, a well-known zoo.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Zytglogge and uncover the details of this historic historical landmark. Make sure to also explore Unesco - Bern Old Town, a worthwhile historical landmark.

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.

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Zum Kuckuck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Piazza Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Taube, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence Lausanne in Switzerland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lausanne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lausanne may take around 1 hour 13 min. Upon your arrival in Lausanne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Sauvabelin Tower and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to The Olympic Museum, another highlight in Lausanne. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Montbenon, a romantic park.

Nearby, you will also find Lausanne Cathedral. This often recommended church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Place De La Palud, an eye-catching public square that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Poesia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Saint Pierre is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lausanne Cocktail Club - LCC. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lausanne tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Captain Cook Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to King Size Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pin Up Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 7 of your European tour in Switzerland and Austria, you’ll start and end your day in Riex, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Riex in Switzerland. Lausanne remains your base for 1 night more.

Riex’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lausanne behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Riex welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Chillon Castle. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Montreux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Corsier-sur-Vevey. This drive usually takes around 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Freddie Mercury Statue, an underrated monument known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Golden Pass Railway, a beloved heritage railway.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Holy Cow!, a highly-rated dining destination in Lausanne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Alpha Palmiers by Fassbind, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Brasserie Saint-Laurent. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lausanne this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bulldog Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Nolf Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Barberousse Lausanne. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the night falls in Lausanne, 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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Austria. Today's main destinations are Geneva 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 Geneva. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lausanne and set your GPS to Geneva. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Geneva, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bains Des Pâquis, an up-and-coming swimming pool in Geneva. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, The Geneva Water Fountain. This popular monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Jardin Anglais is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most noteworthy park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the captivating L'horloge Fleurie and discover what makes this art installation unique.

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

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Geneva. 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 wonderful meal at Auberge de Savièse, a top-rated dining spot in Geneva. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Rouge & Le Blanc Genève, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Osteria della Bottega. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Geneva.

Keep the evening going at Coyote Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Roi Ubu, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Phare, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 10 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Austria 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 Marktgemeinde Wattens in Austria. You will return to Innsbruck for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Whether you decide to explore Marktgemeinde Wattens on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Whatever your travel style is, Ambras Castle Innsbruck is an essential stop in Innsbruck. This increasingly popular castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Bergisel Ski Jump, a breathtaking observation deck, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol, a popular zoo.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marktgemeinde Wattens. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Swarovski Kristallwelten, an interesting art installation that everyone visiting Marktgemeinde Wattens should see.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a popular restaurant in Innsbruck. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Innsbruck at Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe, 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 Café Central. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Innsbruck tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Montagu Bed & Beers offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dom Cafe-bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Plansch Bar 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!