One-Week Road Trip to Austria, Germany, and Switzerland

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region of Vienna in Austria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Vienna for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Austria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Vienna before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

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

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 region’s most recommended bars.

Indulge in an exquisite Bib Gourmand dining experience at Amador. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, Amador consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative and contemporary cuisine.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Vienna. At Needle Vinyl Bar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 774 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Josef Cocktailbar, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 508 reviews.

1516 Brewing Company is also one of the best places in Vienna where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,352 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland 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 Austria, Germany, and Switzerland has in store for you! You will be staying in Vienna for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

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 region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

Reserve a table at Figlmüller – Restaurant Bäckerstraße, a renowned restaurant in Vienna. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 15,227 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Café Landtmann while in Vienna. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 13,586 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Vienna at Salm Bräu, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 11,176 customers.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend 7Stern Bräu, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,265 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Zum Schwarzen Kameel. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,523 customers.

Flanagans is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,132 customers.

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!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Vienna in Austria and Munich in Germany. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Vienna, including the outstanding St. Stephen's Cathedral. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 103,855 reviews, this fascinating catholic cathedral and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Vienna is also home to the captivating Hofburg Palace, a local castle considered one of the highlights of the city. About 47,034 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

Set your GPS to Lorch and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lorch beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Lorch today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Stadtturm Enns. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 723 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Germany, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Munich. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 56 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Munich 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 Austria, Germany, and Switzerland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Munich’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 an outstanding Bib Gourmand dining experience at Atelier. Holding an impressive 2 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Atelier consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional creative french cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is EssZimmer, one of the best Bib Gourmand 2-star Michelin fine dining venues in Munich. Take your pick from the modern french and creative menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining in Munich. With its prestigious 2-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant with a Bib-Gourmand award, serves creative and modern dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Zephyr Bar. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,016 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Schneider Bräuhaus München. This popular bar in Munich is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,282 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,885 reviews.

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

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

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 Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

Reserve your spot at Augustiner Klosterwirt GmbH, a popular local restaurant in Munich. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 7,224 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Ratskeller München during your stay in Munich. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,121 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Kilians Irish Pub, a popular local gem in Munich. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 5,188 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Nuernberger Bratwurst Gloeckl am Dom. This famous bar in Munich has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,035 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,475 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Rosi coffee & bar. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,119 customers.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Munich in Germany and Neuhausen in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to St. Gallen where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated square and attraction in Munich — Marienplatz. About 118,139 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Viktualienmarkt is another top sight in Munich that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved sightseeing destination in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,191 visitors.

Stachus is a spectacular square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Munich, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,791 enchanted visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Munich, 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 Neuhausen may take around 3 hours 22 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A tour of Neuhausen is not complete without a visit to the famous Rhine Falls. This incredible waterfall and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 70,505 travelers.

St. Gallen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Neuhausen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour. St. Gallen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in St. Gallen. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Switzerland 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Netts Schützengarten, one of the top upscale restaurants in St. Gallen. Offering a diverse menu focusing on international and country cooking cuisine, Netts Schützengarten has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

A local favorite is Einstein Gourmet. This exceptional dining experience in St. Gallen has been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Featuring creative and modern cuisine, this popular Bib Gourmand restaurant is a top choice for both locals and tourists.

Discover the extraordinary dining experience offered by Jägerhof in St. Gallen. Its 1-Michelin star menu is designed to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a culinary adventure. Many previous guests have raved about this restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star reputation.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned HANS IM GLÜCK - ST. GALLEN Kugelgasse, a must-visit hotspot in the city of St. Gallen. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, backed by 747 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Süd Bar, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Blumenmarkt, one of the top-rated bars in St. Gallen, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 557 satisfied customers.

As the night falls in St. Gallen, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of St. Gallen in Switzerland, Hohenschwangau in Germany, and Salzburg in Austria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Salzburg, your home for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in St. Gallen is the magnificent Abbey of Saint Gall. Around 3,646 visitors have rated this excellent benedictine abbey and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hohenschwangau, Germany. This car ride takes around 2 hours 3 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sightseeing destination and attraction in Hohenschwangau — Hohenschwangau Castle. About 32,469 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Neuschwanstein Castle is another top sight in Hohenschwangau that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved point of interest in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 89,719 visitors.

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 Hohenschwangau to Salzburg may take around 3 hours 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

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

Take your Salzburg getaway to new heights by dining at The Glass Garden, a restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, The Glass Garden consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Salzburg is Ikarus, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative and modern menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Ikarus’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Salzburg and reserve a table at the 2-star Michelin restaurant, SENNS. Restaurant. Its delectable creative menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Monkeys cafe. Bar. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 851 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Darwin's Cafe Bar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 658 customers.

Murphy's Law Irish Pub cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 615 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. 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 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Salzburg is the fantastic Mozart's Birthplace. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, Mozart's Birthplace has earned an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 21,779 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Fortress Hohensalzburg. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,309 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Hellbrunn Palace, a standout château and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,017 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Mirabell Palace. This château is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,688 visitor reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vienna. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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

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 region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Plachutta Wollzeile. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Vienna boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from around 6,398 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Vienna is Vollpension. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,641 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Lugeck, in Vienna. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,346 satisfied customers.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Crossfield's Australian Pub, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Crossfield's Australian Pub boasts an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,326 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Loos American Bar, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Loos American Bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,538 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Kleinod. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5-star from 1,538 customers.

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

On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Vienna 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 Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As you approach the end of your journey in Austria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Vienna’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the region’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Austria, a variety of items are waiting for you.

Get a last taste of Austria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Vienna 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 Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

The time has come to say farewell to Vienna 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 Austria, Germany, and Switzerland with fond memories. Safe travels!