9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Austria and Switzerland With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg, Innsbruck, Lucerne, and Bregenz

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

Whether you decide to explore Vienna on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Innere Stadt, a popular neighborhood in Vienna. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Mariahilfer Straße today, a street that’s well worth a visit.

One of the most timeless attractions included on the itinerary is St. Stephen's Cathedral. This visually striking church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Schönbrunn Palace and learn what makes this history-steeped palace unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Vienna. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Austria in a new light.

Don’t miss out on dining at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ofenloch, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flanagans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Miranda Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Josef Cocktailbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Roberto American Bar Ii offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salzburg may take around 3 hours 19 min. Upon your arrival in Salzburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Fortress Hohensalzburg, a captivating castle in Salzburg. Explore its grand features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Haus Der Natur Salzburg. This locally renowned museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Mirabell Palace is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic palace in the region.

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

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Salzburg's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Dine in style at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out WeiherWirt. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Salzburg.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Harry Bär, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Darwin's Cafe Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Austria and Switzerland. Today's main destinations are Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Salzburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Innsbruck. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 15 min. When you arrive in Innsbruck, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Bergisel Ski Jump, an underrated observation deck 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 Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Innsbrucker Hofgarten, an increasingly popular park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Golden Roof, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Triumphpforte, a heritage-rich place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Stiftskeller, a top-rated dining spot in Innsbruck. If you're in the mood for something new, try Thai-Li-Ba, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Breakfast Club. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Innsbruck.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Bar Dinzler, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Music-bar Zappa is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Katzung is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Innsbruck, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Lucerne in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, your home for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lucerne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Innsbruck to Lucerne may take around 3 hours 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Swiss Museum Of Transport is a well-known museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Lion Monument Lucerne, a culturally significant monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an enchanting historical landmark. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Chapel Bridge, a romantic and truly unique historical landmark.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lucerne. 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, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Lucerne. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Switzerland in a new light.

Savor the flavors at Valentino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Weisses Schloss beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bolero. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lucerne tonight.

Keep the evening going at Bar 58, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Penthouse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip through Austria and Switzerland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Interlaken in Switzerland. With 1 night left in Lucerne, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lucerne and set your GPS to Interlaken. 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 1 hour 6 min. Upon reaching Interlaken, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Yash Chopra Statue, an up-and-coming monument known for its breathtaking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Höhematte Interlaken, an often recommended park.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Harderkulm, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Interlaken to Harderkulm may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Harderkulm, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Harderkulm. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop.

Alte Aare Bucht’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Harderkulm behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Alte Aare Bucht welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Naturschutzgebiet Weissenau, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve known for its mesmerizing features.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Lucerne. 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 and Switzerland.

Savor the flavors at Ampersand, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lucerne tonight.

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

Bregenz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lucerne behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 20 min. Bregenz 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 Alpenwildpark Pfänder, an underrated wildlife reserve that everyone visiting Bregenz should see. Next, head to Pfänder. This mesmerizing mountain range is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Kunsthaus Bregenz, a picture-perfect art gallery popular among locals as well as travelers. Vorarlberg Museum is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this frequently visited museum before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Oberstadt, a historic street and a top attraction in the town.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Bregenz'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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pier69 Hafenrestaurant, an iconic dining spot in Bregenz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sakura sushi bar, a popular restaurant in Bregenz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Chen´s Dining Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bregenz. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ambiente Bar Pub Billard offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Beachbar Bregenz is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café Wunderbar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Bregenz 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!