12-Day Road Trip in Switzerland, and Germany from Zurich to Munich, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, and Basel

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Zurich. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Zurich is the fantastic Zürich Zoo. As an appreciated zoo and local gem in the area, Zürich Zoo has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,599 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Kunsthaus Zürich, which is an art museum that gets around 382,603 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,760 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Grossmünster, a standout church building and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,428 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Zürich Opera House. This opera house is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,349 visitor reviews.

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

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

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

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!

On day 4 of your European tour in Switzerland, and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Hohenschwangau, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Munich for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau in Germany to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Hohenschwangau, 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 Munich to Hohenschwangau may take around 1 hour 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hohenschwangau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A tour of Hohenschwangau is not complete without a visit to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,520 travelers.

Make the most of your Hohenschwangau travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Hohenschwangau Castle. This point of interest and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,919 travelers.

Set your GPS to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Garmisch-Partenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Linderhof Palace. This outstanding palace and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 17,178 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Linderhof Palace is worth pages in your travel diary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This car ride takes around 54 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the fantastic Partnachklamm. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Partnachklamm has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,921 reviews.

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.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pusser's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Ory Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Munich. Harry's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6, 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.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Deutsches Museum. This outstanding national museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 1,250,000 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 34,868 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Deutsches Museum is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Viktualienmarkt is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This sightseeing destination and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,600 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing square, Marienplatz. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 119,529 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Stachus, an outstanding national museum, is one place you should visit while in Munich considering its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,328 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Nymphenburg Palace and discover what makes this local summer residence and wonder one of the best attractions in Munich. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 31,669 travelers.

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 Munich. 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 lovely meal at Trachtenvogl, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Munich Soup Kitchen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Munich tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Keg Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stammbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Lux also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Dachau 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 Stuttgart. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Dachau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Munich behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Dachau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A tour of Dachau is not complete without a visit to the famous Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. This incredible cemetery and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,414 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Dachau, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nuremberg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 49 min.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Schöner Brunnen. This outstanding well and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 8,679 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Schöner Brunnen is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Nuremberg Castle is another of the town's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,212 travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart. 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Der Zauberlehrling in Stuttgart by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Der Zauberlehrling delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Speisemeisterei, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and innovative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Ritzi Gourmet, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative french, and modern cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Petit Coq, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Jigger & Spoon is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Day 8 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Stuttgart. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Stuttgart is the magnificent Mercedes-benz Museum. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 876,109 travelers from across the world. Around 43,234 visitors have rated this excellent automobile museum and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Wilhelma on this leg of your adventure in Germany. This attraction is a well-known zoo that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 33,531 travelers.

The remarkable Schloßplatz is known to be one of the best places to visit in Stuttgart, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,914 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Stuttgart by exploring the captivating Porsche Museum. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,681 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Stuttgart exploration list!

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Stuttgart. 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 delicious dinner at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Riedsee. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stuttgart.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Si-centrum Stuttgart, known for its lively atmosphere. Mata Hari is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the night falls in Stuttgart, 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 9 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 Hechingen in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stuttgart, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Hechingen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Hechingen, including the outstanding Hohenzollern Castle. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,069 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hechingen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sinsheim may take around 1 hour 44 min. Upon your arrival in Sinsheim, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated technology museum and attraction in Sinsheim — Technikmuseum Sinsheim. About 29,268 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Mannheim’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sinsheim behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Mannheim welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Luisenpark. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 19,730 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Luisenpark is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Watertower Of Mannheim is another of the town's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This water tower and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,295 travelers.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Heidelberg. 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 dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Heidelberg. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Basel in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Zurich where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Basel today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Middle Bridge. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,094 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Basel Minster. This incredible attraction and cathedral holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 7,564 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lucerne, 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 Basel to Lucerne may take around 1 hour 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Lion Monument Lucerne is a travelers’ favorite in Lucerne, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,757 visitors.

In Lucerne, don’t miss Chapel Bridge, a great sightseeing destination and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,595 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Lucerne off your list when you visit the wonderful Swiss Museum Of Transport. This popular sight is an outstanding technology museum, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,843 travelers. Approximately 562,605 people visit this attraction each year.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alpenrose, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kafi Dihei offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Weisses Rössli. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Babalu, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. Nelson is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.