12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria With Itinerary from Venice to Verona, Innsbruck, Lucerne, and Interlaken

On day 2 of your European tour in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you’ll start and end your day in Venice, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Venice in Italy. Venice remains your base for 1 night more.

One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Teatro La Fenice. This romantic opera house will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Piazza San Marco and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-designated public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned St Mark's Basilica. After exploring the church, head to Doge's Palace. This interesting palace is a highlight in Venice. As your day continues, stop by Bridge Of Sighs, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Murano, an underrated handicraft store that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Generator Venice, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Nevodi offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ristorante La Piazza. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Venice.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Il Mercante after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Irish Pub Venezia for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Ai Stagneri is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take in the ambiance of Venice 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Verona in Italy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Verona where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Verona. This car ride takes around 1 hour 21 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Giusti Garden, a worthwhile botanical garden known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Ponte Pietra, an interesting historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Piazza Delle Erbe and uncover the details of this enchanting public square. Make sure to also explore Verona Arena, an iconic stadium. For your last stop, consider Castelvecchio Bridge, a romantic monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Griglia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vecio Macello offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Via Fama Cafè | Verona is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Verona.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Archivio, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Segreteria Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Grande Giove Cocktail Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take in the ambiance of Verona 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!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip through Italy, Switzerland, and Austria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sirmione in Italy. With 1 night left in Verona, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Sirmione is brimming with adventures.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sirmione. This car ride takes around 51 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Archaeological Site Of Grotte Di Catullo, an interesting archeological site that everyone visiting Sirmione should see. Next, head to Parrocchia Di Santa Maria Maggiore. This history-steeped church is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Scaliger Castle, a history-steeped castle popular among locals as well as travelers. Beach Brema Sirmione is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this beloved beach before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Sirmione’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Malcesine. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Malcesine, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Castle Of Malcesine, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Verona. 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 Trattoria I Masenini, an iconic dining spot in Verona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Osteria da Ugo, a popular restaurant in Verona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Locanda 4 Cuochi, a hidden gem nestled in Verona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

As the night falls in Verona, 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.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Austria! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Innsbruck may take around 3 hours 6 min. Upon your arrival in Innsbruck, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Patscherkofel Cable Car Lower/valley Station is a worthwhile tramway we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ambras Castle Innsbruck, a romantic castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Bergisel Ski Jump, a culturally significant observation deck.

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

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Bar Dinzler after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Music-bar Zappa, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Katzung also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria 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 Marktgemeinde Wattens in Austria. You will return to Innsbruck for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Enjoy all that Triumphpforte has to offer. This is an underrated monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Golden Roof, an interesting historical landmark in Innsbruck.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Innsbrucker Hofgarten. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol, another of the town’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Mühlauer Klamm, an instagrammable place of interest in the town.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Marktgemeinde Wattens, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Innsbruck to Marktgemeinde Wattens may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Marktgemeinde Wattens, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Swarovski Kristallwelten, a popular art installation in Marktgemeinde Wattens. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Innsbruck.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Central is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Innsbruck.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Montagu Bed & Beers is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dom Cafe-bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Plansch Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, 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 Lucerne in Switzerland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lucerne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

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

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.

Savor the day by heading to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a captivating museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Next, explore Jesuit Church, Lucerne, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Chapel Bridge. This culturally significant historical landmark is well worth the visit.

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.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Switzerland's delectable cuisine at one of Lucerne'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 Valentino, an iconic dining spot in Lucerne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Weisses Schloss, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bolero, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. 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, Bar 58 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Penthouse 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 Italy, Switzerland, and Austria! Enjoy your evening in Lucerne to the fullest!

Wake up and see what day 8 of your great European road trip in Italy, Switzerland, and Austria has in store for you! You will be staying in Lucerne for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Church Of St. Leodegar leaves a lasting impression. This church is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Lucerne. Next, head to Bourbaki-panorama (building), a frequently visited museum, known for its heritage-rich features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This breathtaking monument is a highly recommended experience.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ampersand, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Take in the ambiance of Lucerne 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!