One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Interlaken, Basel, Constance, and Innsbruck

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 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 Lucerne in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Interlaken where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lucerne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Lucerne, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Lion Monument Lucerne, a popular monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Chapel Bridge and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Jesuit Church, Lucerne, an underrated church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

Savor the day by heading to Mount Pilatus, a locally appreciated mountain range that draws visitors from near and far.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Interlaken. 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, Austria, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Interlaken.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Taj Palace offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss OX Restaurant & Grill. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Interlaken.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Brasserie 17, a prime location for a drink.

As the night falls in Interlaken, 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.

Greet day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Mürren in Switzerland. You will return to Interlaken for your remaining 1 night in the town later today.

Whether you decide to explore Mürren on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

As you explore Mürren’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Mürren’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Interlaken behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Mürren welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Trümmelbach Falls and explore the romantic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lauterbrunnen may take around 4 min. Upon your arrival in Lauterbrunnen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lauterbrunnen is Poblado Lauterbrunnen, a locally appreciated waterfall that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Wengernalpbahn, a visually striking heritage railway that stands out in the village.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grindelwald. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Outdoor - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald, an often recommended canyon that everyone visiting Grindelwald should see. Next, head to Photopoint Grindelwald. This enchanting observation deck is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Switzerland's delectable cuisine at one of Interlaken's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Horn, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Indian Tandoori? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chalet Beizli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Interlaken.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Bern in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Basel, your home for 1 night.

Bern’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Interlaken behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Bern welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bundesplatz, a locally appreciated public square that everyone visiting Bern should see. Next, head to Zytglogge. This picture-perfect historical landmark is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Unesco - Bern Old Town, an enchanting historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Bear Pit is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this interesting zoo before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Rose Garden Bern, a majestic botanical garden and a top attraction in the city.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Basel's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Schall Und Rauch Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Grenzwert Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. 8 Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Basel to the fullest!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, 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 Constance. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Germany! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Freiburg im Breisgau may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Freiburg im Breisgau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Freiburg im Breisgau is Martin's Gate, a beloved monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Bertoldsbrunnen, a history-steeped public square that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Freiburger Münsterbauverein, an interesting church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Stadtgarten Freiburg, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Freiburg im Breisgau, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hinterzarten. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hinterzarten is Schwarzwälder Skimuseum, an intriguing museum that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

When you’ve had your share of Hinterzarten, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Constance. Your travel time is around 1 hour 23 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Island Mainau, a popular botanical garden that everyone visiting Constance should see.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Constance. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Defne, a top-rated dining destination in Constance. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Il Boccone, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Schwarze Katz. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Constance this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Destille Café Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Einstein Bar Konstanz for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Take in the ambiance of Constance as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Innsbruck in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Innsbruck, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Constance, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Innsbruck, Austria. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Austria. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 5 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ambras Castle Innsbruck. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Triumphpforte. This beloved monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Golden Roof. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol, a captivating zoo. Conclude your sightseeing at Innsbrucker Hofgarten, known for its mesmerizing features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Stiftskeller, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Thai-Li-Ba beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Breakfast Club. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Innsbruck tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Bar Dinzler, known for its lively atmosphere. Music-bar Zappa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Katzung offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Hohenschwangau 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Hohenschwangau, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Innsbruck to Hohenschwangau may take around 1 hour 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hohenschwangau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Hohenschwangau Castle and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Marienbrücke, another highlight in Hohenschwangau. When you’re done exploring the sightseeing destination, continue to Neuschwanstein Castle, a history-steeped castle.

Set your GPS to Waltenhofen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 4 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Waltenhofen beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering St. Coloman, a curiosity-inducing church known for its history-steeped features.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in 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, Austria, and Germany.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, 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 El Lokal, 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 Aurora, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Eldorado, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gotthard Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Stanza is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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