9-Day Road Trip in Switzerland, and Austria from Zurich to Innsbruck, Gmunden, Vienna, and Braunau am Inn

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Embark on an unforgettable 9-day multi-country road trip across Switzerland, and Austria! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Zurich, St. Gallen, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, and Salzburg sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.

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 2 nights in Switzerland, and 6 nights in Austria.

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, and St. Gallen, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Austria. Immerse yourself in the allure of Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Salzburg, Gmunden, Vienna, and Braunau am Inn, where every street tells a story.

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 Austria 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 9-day self-drive adventure in Switzerland, and Austria. 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 Austria.

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

  • Zurich - Arrival day
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  • Lindenhof
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Switzerland, and Austria 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.

Lindenhof 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 11,519 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 unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Zurich boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Switzerland.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Differente, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider zum Kropf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Babu's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Widder Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Rio Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, and Austria 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, and Innsbruck

  • Innsbruck
  • Zurich
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Drive 299 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Grossmünster
  • Zürich Opera House
  • Zürich Zoo
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Zurich in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Innsbruck, your home for 1 night.

In Zurich, the extraordinary Grossmünster awaits. This attraction is a valued church building that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,428 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Zurich is the spectacular Zürich Opera House. This attraction is an opera house that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,349 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Zürich Zoo. This local zoo and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,599 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Stiftskeller, a top-rated dining destination in Innsbruck. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Thai-Li-Ba, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Breakfast Club. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Innsbruck this evening.

Keep the evening going at Café Bar Dinzler, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Music-bar Zappa, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cafe Katzung, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Salzburg, and Gmunden

  • Gmunden
  • Wattens
  • Salzburg
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Drive 284 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds
  • Hellbrunn Palace
  • Mirabell Palace
  • Red Bull Hangar-7
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, and Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marktgemeinde Wattens in Austria. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gmunden, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Marktgemeinde Wattens’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Innsbruck behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Marktgemeinde Wattens welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

In Marktgemeinde Wattens, the extraordinary Swarovski Kristallwelten awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,185 travelers' reviews.

After soaking in Marktgemeinde Wattens’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salzburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 52 min. When you arrive in Salzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

In Salzburg, the extraordinary Hellbrunn Palace awaits. This attraction is a valued château that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,177 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Salzburg is the spectacular Mirabell Palace. This attraction is a château that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,975 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Hangar-7. This local architectural structure and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,220 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Gmunden. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Austria 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 book a table at Runningsushi Bamboo, a popular restaurant in Gmunden. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Gmunden at San Marino, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Pizzeria Capri. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Gmunden tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Seelounge Gmunden offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Die Strandung is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Gmunden, Salzburg, and Vienna

  • Vienna
  • Salzburg
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Drive 378 km, 4 hours 42 min

  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Mozartplatz
  • Mozart's Birthplace
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, and Austria. Today's main destinations are Salzburg 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 3 nights.

After soaking in Gmunden’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salzburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive in Salzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Salzburg today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Fortress Hohensalzburg. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,742 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Mozartplatz. This incredible attraction and square holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 12,302 visitors.

According to travelers in Salzburg, the extraordinary Mozart's Birthplace is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,028 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Vienna. 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 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Vienna's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Austria 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, Vienna has them.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Amador in Vienna by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Amador offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative, and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Mraz & Sohn, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Steirereck im Stadtpark, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative, and contemporary menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tapete Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kruger’s American Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take in the ambiance of Vienna 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 5

Day 5 – Vienna

  • Vienna
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Schönbrunn Zoo
  • Schönbrunn Palace Park
  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Belvedere Palace
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Day 5 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 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Tiergarten Schönbrunn. This outstanding zoo and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 51,059 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Tiergarten Schönbrunn is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Schönbrunn Palace is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This château and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 54,108 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing château, Schönbrunn Palace. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 147,071 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Belvedere Palace Chapel, an outstanding zoo, is one place you should visit while in Vienna considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 67,468 travelers.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, and Austria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Vienna. 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 Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a highly-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Ofenloch, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flanagans. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Miranda Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Josef Cocktailbar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Roberto American Bar Ii is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the night falls in Vienna, 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.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Vienna

  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 8 km, 39 min

  • Vienna State Opera
  • Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
  • Prater
  • More

Wake up and see what day 6 of your great European road trip in Switzerland, and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Vienna for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Vienna is the magnificent Vienna State Opera. Around 50,516 visitors have rated this excellent opera house and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel on this leg of your adventure in Austria. This attraction is a well-known sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 38,136 travelers.

The remarkable Prater is known to be one of the best places to visit in Vienna, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 115,600 traveler reviews is proof.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Vienna'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 Puerstner, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vollpension? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zum Schwarzen Kameel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Vienna.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Loos American Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Brandauer Bierstube, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Vienna 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 7

Day 7 – Vienna, and Braunau am Inn

  • Braunau am Inn
  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 286 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
  • Hofburg Palace
  • Museum of Natural History Vienna
  • MuseumsQuartier
  • More

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, and Austria, 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 Vienna in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Braunau am Inn, where you will stay for 1 night.

Something that makes Vienna the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding catholic cathedral, St. Stephen's Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 105,471 visitors.

The famous Hofburg Palace is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Vienna's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 47,614 travelers have rated this incredible castle and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Vienna is also home to the extraordinary Museum Of Natural History Vienna, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 33,817 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Museumsquartier. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 30,351 reviews, a visit to this wonderful art museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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

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, and Austria by rewarding yourself with a taste of Braunau am Inn’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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Jia's Asia Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Braunau am Inn. If you're eager to try something different, consider Philoxenia - griechisches Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Indisches Restaurant Guru Braunau. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Braunau am Inn this evening.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Braunau am Inn, St. Gallen, and Zurich

  • Zurich
  • Sankt Gallen
  • More

Drive 442 km, 4 hours 55 min

  • Abbey of Saint Gall
  • St. Gallen Cathedral
  • Drei Weieren
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, and Austria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - St. Gallen 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Braunau am Inn, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Switzerland! Under favorable conditions, your drive to St. Gallen may take around 3 hours 48 min. Upon your arrival in St. Gallen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated benedictine abbey and attraction in St. Gallen — Abbey Of Saint Gall. About 3,731 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular St. Gallen Cathedral is another top sight in St. Gallen that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved cathedral in the area, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,157 visitors.

Drei Weieren is a spectacular urban park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in St. Gallen, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,735 enchanted visitors.

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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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, and Austria.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french, and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, recognized for its delicious sharing, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative, and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Eldorado stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. La Stanza is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Zurich - departure day

  • Zurich - Departure day
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  • Old Botanical Garden
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On day 9 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 Austria. 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. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.

A tour of Zurich is not complete without a visit to the famous Old Botanical Garden, Zurich. This incredible botanical garden and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,667 travelers.

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 Austria.

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 9-day European road trip in Switzerland, and Austria with fond memories. Safe travels!

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