One-Week Road Trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany from Zurich to Munich, Vienna, Braunau am Inn, and Karlsruhe

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Switzerland, Austria, 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.

Polybahn is a travelers’ favorite in Zurich, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 691 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zurich. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rio Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. La Stanza is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, Austria, 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.

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, 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 Zurich in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Munich, 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 Zurich to Munich may take around 3 hours 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Munich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Something that makes Zurich the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding church building, Grossmünster. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 visitors.

The famous Kunsthaus Zürich is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area, with up to 382,603 people visiting it every year. As one of Zurich's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 6,594 travelers have rated this incredible art museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Zurich is also home to the extraordinary Zürich Zoo, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 26,267 traveler reviews.

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

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 Munich. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Munich by booking a table at Atelier, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative french menu. For a different flavor experience, head to EssZimmer, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Munich. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Zephyr Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Pusser's is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Boilerman Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Munich to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Munich in Germany and Gemeinde Melk in Austria, 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 Vienna. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Gemeinde Melk, Austria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gemeinde Melk beckons with new experiences!

Marienplatz is a travelers’ favorite in Munich, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,139 visitors.

In Munich, don’t miss Olympiapark, a great olympic park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 68,103 reviews.

Set your GPS to Gemeinde Melk, Austria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gemeinde Melk beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Gemeinde Melk is not complete without a visit to the famous Melk Abbey. This incredible abbey and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,473 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vienna. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Vienna’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Amador in Vienna by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Amador delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Mraz & Sohn, acclaimed for its delectable creative 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 Steirereck im Stadtpark, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for creative and contemporary cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kruger’s American Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Josef Cocktailbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Loos American Bar, 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!

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Vienna. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sightseeing destination and attraction in Vienna — Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. About 37,411 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Hofburg Palace is another top sight in Vienna that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved castle in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 47,034 visitors.

Museum of Natural History Vienna is a spectacular museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Vienna, earning an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 33,317 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent MuseumsQuartier. Because of its allure and charm, around 30,180 visitors have rated this attraction and art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Vienna State Opera. Echoing its popularity, 49,854 travelers have awarded this famous opera house and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Vienna’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Vollpension, an iconic dining spot in Vienna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zum Schwarzen Kameel, a popular restaurant in Vienna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Plachutta Wollzeile, a hidden gem nestled in Vienna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Vienna in Austria. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Braunau am Inn, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Braunau am Inn’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vienna behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 57 min. Braunau am Inn welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A tour of Vienna is not complete without a visit to the famous St. Stephen's Cathedral. This incredible catholic cathedral and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 103,855 travelers.

Make the most of your Vienna travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Belvedere Palace Chapel. This chapel and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 66,332 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Schönbrunn Palace for an experience worth remembering. This local château and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 53,579 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Braunau am Inn. 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 sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Braunau am Inn's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Switzerland to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Braunau am Inn has them.

Dine in style at Jia's Asia Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Philoxenia - griechisches Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Indisches Restaurant Guru Braunau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Braunau am Inn.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Stuttgart in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Karlsruhe, your home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Braunau am Inn and set your GPS to Stuttgart, Germany. 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 3 hours 31 min. Upon reaching Stuttgart, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Stuttgart, including the outstanding Mercedes-Benz Museum. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 42,800 reviews and welcoming more than 876,109 visitors each year, this fascinating automobile museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Stuttgart is also home to the captivating Wilhelma, a local zoo considered one of the highlights of the city. About 33,034 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Schloßplatz is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Stuttgart. This extraordinary square and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,355 travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Karlsruhe. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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, Austria, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Karlsruhe’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Karlsruhe by booking a table at Bistro Margarete. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to sein, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover TAWA YAMA FINE, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Phono Craftbeer Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Electric Eel is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Carlos CocktailBar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Karlsruhe 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Neuhausen in Switzerland and Lahr/Schwarzwald in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Zurich where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Rust, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Neuhausen, Switzerland. Your travel time is around 1 hour 59 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated waterfall and attraction in Neuhausen — Rhine Falls. About 70,505 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lahr/Schwarzwald. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Lahr/Schwarzwald is the magnificent Lahr Park. Around 2,712 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lahr/Schwarzwald, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rust. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Rust, including the outstanding Silver Star. Having an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 7,829 reviews, this fascinating hypercoaster and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

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, Austria, 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aurora, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kafi Dihei, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Weisses Rössli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ebrietas Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rimini Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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!

On day 8 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, Austria, 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. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Switzerland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Switzerland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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, Austria, and Germany.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Pasta, 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 8-day European road trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!