5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Interlaken and Freiburg im Breisgau
Description
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Description
Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 5 days. The journey covers Switzerland and Germany, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.
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!
Itinerary summary
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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.
Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
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 lively evening at Widder Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rio Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
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.
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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Zurich. Begin your sightseeing with Üetliberg. This intriguing mountain range is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Zurich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This well-known monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Chapel Bridge, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Lake Brienz is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Harderkulm and uncover why it's recognized as one of the hamlet's most locally appreciated attractions.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Interlaken. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Interlaken’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in 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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Brasserie 17, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
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 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bern in Switzerland and Triberg im Schwarzwald 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.
A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Interlaken on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated historical landmark, Zytglogge. Afterward, continue to Bear Pit, a zoo every traveler should visit.
As you explore Interlaken’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Basel Minster. This frequently visited church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Triberg Waterfalls, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Freiburg im Breisgau’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
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 Freiburg im Breisgau'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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Oberkirch, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Süden? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at El Gallo Freiburg as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Am Funkeneck, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Beat Bar Butzemann offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Freiburg im Breisgau.
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!
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
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On day 4 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 Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zurich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Freiburg im Breisgau, including a public square, a church, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Bertoldsbrunnen. This up-and-coming public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Freiburger Münsterbauverein located in Freiburg im Breisgau for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of City Museum Of Lindau. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Island Mainau. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this botanical garden.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Zurich. 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 slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cantinetta Antinori, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Lokal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aurora. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.
Continue your lively evening at Eldorado, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gotthard Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, La Stanza ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
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.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Zurich’s shopping center, the lively Bahnhofstrasse. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.
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.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Kafi Dihei, another premier location with a delectable menu.
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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