9-Day Road Trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany from Zurich to Basel, Stuttgart, Salzburg, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, Munich, and Neuhausen

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 2 nights.

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.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Arboretum Zürich. This outstanding arboretum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 2,796 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Arboretum Zürich is worth pages in your travel diary.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

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

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Zurich for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Zurich, including the outstanding Zürich Zoo. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews, this fascinating zoo and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Zurich is also home to the captivating Kunsthaus Zürich, a local art museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 6,594 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 382,603 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Grossmünster is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Zurich. This extraordinary church building and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Zürich Opera House will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing opera house and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,213 reviews.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Aurora, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kafi Dihei offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Weisses Rössli. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ebrietas Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rimini Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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 3 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 Basel in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zurich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Basel may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Basel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated road bridge and attraction in Basel — middle bridge. About 6,025 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Basel Minster is another top sight in Basel that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved cathedral in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

Basel Zoo is a spectacular zoo and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Basel, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 enchanted visitors.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Stuttgart’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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Stuttgart by booking a table at Der Zauberlehrling. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Ritzi Gourmet, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le petit Coq after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Jigger & Spoon for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Schwarz Weiß Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Stuttgart 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 Salzburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Salzburg, 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 Stuttgart to Salzburg may take around 4 hours 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Salzburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Something that makes Stuttgart the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Schloßplatz. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,355 visitors.

The famous Wilhelma is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Stuttgart's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 33,034 travelers have rated this incredible zoo and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Stuttgart is also home to the extraordinary Mercedes-Benz Museum, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 42,800 traveler reviews. This stunning automobile museum and local feature draws more than 876,109 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Salzburg, Austria. This car ride takes around 4 hours 7 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Glass Garden in Salzburg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Glass Garden delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ikarus, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern 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 SENNS. Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Harry Bär is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Darwin's Cafe Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Salzburg 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!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Salzburg in Austria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vienna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Salzburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vienna. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Salzburg is not complete without a visit to the famous Mozart's Birthplace. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 21,779 travelers.

Make the most of your Salzburg travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Fortress Hohensalzburg. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,309 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Hellbrunn Palace for an experience worth remembering. This local château and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,017 visitors.

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

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 Vienna’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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Vienna by reserving a table at Amador. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Mraz & Sohn, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Steirereck im Stadtpark, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vienna.

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

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 6, you will wake up in Vienna with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Vienna before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Vienna today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Belvedere Palace Chapel. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 66,332 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Schönbrunn Palace. This incredible attraction and château holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 145,237 visitors.

According to travelers in Vienna, the extraordinary Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and château is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 53,579 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible zoo, Tiergarten Schönbrunn. Up to 50,414 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

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

Celebrate day 6 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 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Vienna in Austria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, your home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Vienna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gemeinde Melk. Your travel time is around 1 hour 8 min.

St. Stephen's Cathedral is a travelers’ favorite in Vienna, 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 103,855 visitors.

In Vienna, don’t miss Vienna State Opera, a great opera house and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,854 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gemeinde Melk, 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 Vienna to Gemeinde Melk may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Melk, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Something that makes Gemeinde Melk the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding abbey, Melk Abbey. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,473 visitors.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Munich by reserving a table at Atelier. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative french menu. For a different taste experience, head to EssZimmer, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Munich. 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Zephyr Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pusser's is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Boilerman Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the night falls in Munich, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Munich 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Neuhausen, Switzerland. This car ride takes around 3 hours 22 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Neuhausen today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Rhine Falls. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 70,505 visitors.

Set your GPS to Neuhausen, Switzerland and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Neuhausen beckons with new experiences!

In Munich, the extraordinary Marienplatz awaits. This attraction is a valued square that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,139 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Munich is the spectacular English Garden. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,616 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Olympiapark. This local olympic park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 68,103 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Zurich. 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 8 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Viadukt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Pasta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Metropol. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

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 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, Austria, and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Zurich’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Take home a piece of Switzerland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Oliver Twist, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Bar ODEON? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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, Austria, and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!