12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Stuttgart, Weimar, Berlin, Dresden, and Munich

On day 3 of your European tour in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Lucerne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Zurich for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lucerne in Switzerland to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lucerne. This car ride takes around 46 min.

Something that makes Lucerne the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding historical landmark, Chapel Bridge. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,595 visitors.

The famous Church Of St. Leodegar is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Lucerne's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 2,678 travelers have rated this incredible church and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Lucerne is also home to the extraordinary Lion Monument Lucerne, which boasts a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in 20,757 traveler reviews.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Switzerland's delectable cuisine at one of Zurich'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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Babalu, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Nelson also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take in the ambiance of Zurich 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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Neuhausen in Switzerland. 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.

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 Neuhausen. Your travel time is around 41 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated waterfall and attraction in Neuhausen — Rhine Falls. About 71,797 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in Neuhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schaffhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Schaffhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

A tour of Schaffhausen is not complete without a visit to the famous Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen. This incredible monastery and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 140 travelers.

Make the most of your Schaffhausen travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Museum Zu Allerheiligen. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 293 travelers.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Der Zauberlehrling, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Speisemeisterei is one of the best restaurants for creative and innovative cuisine in Stuttgart. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Ritzi Gourmet. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative french and modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Petit Coq, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Jigger & Spoon offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Schwarz Weiß Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany, 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 Potsdam in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berlin, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Weimar and set your GPS to Potsdam. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Potsdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Potsdam today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Neues Palais In Potsdam. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,148 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Sanssouci Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 33,286 visitors.

According to travelers in Potsdam, the extraordinary Sanssouci is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,145 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible monument, Brandenburg Gate. Up to 14,966 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

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 Berlin. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Berlin by booking a table at Rutz. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover FACIL, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Monkey Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Saint Jean, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Green Door Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night 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 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Berlin. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Something that makes Berlin the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, Potsdamer Platz. This local gem has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 60,557 visitors.

The famous Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Berlin's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 45,507 travelers have rated this incredible monument and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Berlin is also home to the extraordinary Brandenburg Gate, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 162,714 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Siegessäule. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 26,706 reviews, a visit to this wonderful monument and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Berlin exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Berlin Zoological Garden up close. This fascinating zoo and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 63,593 travelers is proof.

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 Berlin. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Sharlie Cheen Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Berlin Icebar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Curtain Club provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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!

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

In Berlin, the extraordinary Checkpoint Charlie awaits. This attraction is a valued historical landmark that boasts an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 83,167 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Berlin is the spectacular Topography Of Terror. This attraction is a museum that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,601 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Berlin Cathedral. This local church and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Alexanderplatz is another attraction you might want to add to your Berlin exploration itinerary. This public square is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 213,494 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — East Side Gallery. More than a popular street art and attraction, East Side Gallery offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Berlin. East Side Gallery boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 traveler reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dresden. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 Dresden. 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, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Dresden. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Discover the culinary delights of Dresden by securing a reservation at ElbUferei. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean and international cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Genuss-Atelier, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Elements, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Hebeda's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Blondes likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the night falls in Dresden, 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 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Dresden in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, your home for 2 nights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Dresden, including the outstanding Church Of Our Lady. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 30,472 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Dresden is also home to the captivating Zwinger, a local palace considered one of the highlights of the city. About 49,853 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dresden and set your GPS to Chemnitz. 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 56 min. Upon reaching Chemnitz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Chemnitz today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Chemnitz Botanical Garden. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,654 visitors.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Munich. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Germany 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Munich by reserving a table at Atelier. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative french menu. For a different taste experience, head to EssZimmer, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Munich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Garçon, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Zephyr Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 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!

On day 10, you will wake up in Munich with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Munich before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Switzerland and Germany.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Munich, including the outstanding Stachus. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,328 reviews, this fascinating public square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Munich is also home to the captivating Bmw Museum, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 36,183 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 250,000 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Bmw Welt is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Munich. This extraordinary museum and tourist hot spot hosts more than 3,000,000 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,637 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Olympiapark will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 69,929 reviews.

Soak in Munich's rich culture at the fantastic English Garden. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Munich is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,807 visitor reviews.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Germany's delectable cuisine at one of Munich'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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gasthaus Isarthor, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Dürnbräu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zum Alten Markt is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Munich.

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

Take in the ambiance of Munich 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!

On day 11 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Munich in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Munich is the magnificent Marienplatz. Around 119,529 visitors have rated this excellent public square and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Viktualienmarkt on this leg of your adventure in Germany. This attraction is a well-known food market that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 58,600 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Munich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hohenschwangau. Your travel time is around 1 hour 46 min.

Something that makes Hohenschwangau the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Neuschwanstein Castle. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,520 visitors.

The famous Hohenschwangau Castle is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Hohenschwangau's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 32,919 travelers have rated this incredible castle and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Zurich, 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 Hohenschwangau to Zurich may take around 3 hours 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zurich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Viadukt, 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 La Pasta, 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 Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. 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 Ebrietas Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Total Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rimini Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Take in the ambiance of Zurich 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!