5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Interlaken and Freiburg im Breisgau

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Get ready for an exhilarating 5-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Switzerland and Germany and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Switzerland and 1 night in Germany.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Switzerland, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Zurich and begin your adventure from there. Explore Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Bern, and Basel, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Germany. Immerse yourself in the allure of Triberg im Schwarzwald, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Lindau, where every street tells a story.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Triberg im Schwarzwald’s Triberg Waterfalls. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 5-day self-drive adventure in Switzerland and Germany. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Switzerland and Germany.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Zurich - Arrival day
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  • Old Town (Altstadt)
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Switzerland and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Zurich in Switzerland. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Switzerland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Zurich before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Zurich is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Zurich. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As the sun sets on day 1 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Zurich's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Switzerland to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Zurich has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Differente, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider zum Kropf, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Babu's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Widder Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Rio Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland and Germany has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Zurich
  • Interlaken
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Drive 136 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Üetliberg
  • Uetliberg Lookout Tower
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Lake Brienz
  • Harderkulm
  • Höhematte
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On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sellenbüren 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.

Zurich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a mountain range, an observation deck, a monument, a historical landmark, a lake, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Üetliberg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, a romantic observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lion Monument Lucerne, one of the hamlet’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Chapel Bridge. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Lake Brienz awaits your visit. This lake is a mesmerizing highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is an observation deck - the up-and-coming Harderkulm.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Interlaken. 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 Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top-rated dining spot in Interlaken. If you're in the mood for something new, try Taj Palace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at OX Restaurant & Grill. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Interlaken.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Brasserie 17. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Interlaken
  • Freiburg im Breisgau
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 52 min

  • Zytglogge
  • bear pit
  • Basel Minster
  • Triberg Waterfalls
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bern in Switzerland and Triberg im Schwarzwald in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, your home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Interlaken includes a historical landmark, a zoo, a church, a waterfall and much more! Zytglogge is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Bear Pit, a popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Basel Minster, a visually striking church, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel Oberkirch, a top-rated dining destination in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Süden, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Gallo Freiburg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Freiburg im Breisgau this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Am Funkeneck, known for its lively atmosphere. Beat Bar Butzemann is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Take in the ambiance of Freiburg im Breisgau 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!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Freiburg im Breisgau
  • Zurich
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Drive 361 km, 5 hours 19 min

  • Bertoldsbrunnen
  • Freiburg Minster
  • City Museum of Lindau
  • Island Mainau
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland and Germany. Today's main destinations are Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Freiburg im Breisgau. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a church, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Bertoldsbrunnen. This is a beloved public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Freiburger Münsterbauverein, a locally renowned church in Freiburg im Breisgau.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to City Museum Of Lindau. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Island Mainau, another of the city’s captivating attractions.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Cantinetta Antinori, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Lokal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aurora. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Zurich - Departure day
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  • Bahnhofstrasse
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On day 5 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Zurich before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Switzerland and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace, Niederdorf. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Bahnhofstrasse, a street that captures the true essence of Zurich. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Get a last taste of Switzerland’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Zurich and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Switzerland and Germany.

Dine in style at Alpenrose, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kafi Dihei boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

The time has come to say farewell to Zurich for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 5-day European road trip in Switzerland and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!

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How it works

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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