One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Interlaken, Basel, Constance, and Innsbruck

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 Interlaken, 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 Zurich to Lucerne may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lucerne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lucerne is Lion Monument Lucerne, a popular monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Chapel Bridge, an enchanting historical landmark that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Jesuit Church, Lucerne, an underrated church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a nearby historical landmark, highly recommended by other travelers.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mount Pilatus. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the mountain range before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top-rated dining spot in Interlaken. If you're in the mood for something new, try Taj Palace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at OX Restaurant & Grill. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Interlaken.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Brasserie 17, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Interlaken to the fullest!

On day 3 of your European tour in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Mürren, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Mürren in Switzerland. Interlaken remains your base for 1 night more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Interlaken, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Mürren. This drive usually takes around 22 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trümmelbach Falls. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lauterbrunnen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Mürren to Lauterbrunnen may take around 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lauterbrunnen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Poblado Lauterbrunnen. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Wengernalpbahn. This beloved heritage railway is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grindelwald. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Grindelwald is Outdoor - Glacier Canyon Grindelwald, a worthwhile canyon that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Photopoint Grindelwald, a romantic observation deck that stands out in the village.

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

Savor the flavors at Pizzeria Horn, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Indian Tandoori beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Chalet Beizli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Interlaken 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Bern in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Basel where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Bern’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Interlaken behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Bern welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Bundesplatz is an increasingly popular public square we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Zytglogge, a culturally significant historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Unesco - Bern Old Town, a romantic historical landmark. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Bear Pit, an awe-inspiring and truly unique zoo. End your sightseeing at Rose Garden Bern, a frequently visited botanical garden that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cargo Kultur Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider KOHLMANNS, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at tibits. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Schall Und Rauch Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Grenzwert Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 8 Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Freiburg im Breisgau in Germany. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Constance, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Basel and set your GPS to Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. 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 54 min. Upon reaching Freiburg im Breisgau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Martin's Gate, an increasingly popular monument known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Bertoldsbrunnen, a frequently visited public square.

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 Freiburger Münsterbauverein and uncover the details of this historic church. Make sure to also explore Stadtgarten Freiburg, a frequently visited park.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hinterzarten. This car ride takes around 32 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Schwarzwälder Skimuseum, an underrated museum in Hinterzarten. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Hinterzarten’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Constance. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive in Constance, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Island Mainau and explore the mesmerizing features.

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

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 Constance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Defne, an iconic dining spot in Constance. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Il Boccone, a popular restaurant in Constance. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Schwarze Katz, a hidden gem nestled in Constance. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Destille Café Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Einstein Bar Konstanz offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Constance.

Take in the ambiance of Constance 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!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. 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.

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 5 min. Upon your arrival in Innsbruck, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ambras Castle Innsbruck, a curiosity-inducing castle in Innsbruck. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Triumphpforte. This intriguing monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Golden Roof is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most instagrammable historical landmark in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the interesting Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol and discover what makes this zoo unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Innsbrucker Hofgarten, a mesmerizing park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Innsbruck's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Stiftskeller, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Thai-Li-Ba? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Breakfast Club as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Innsbruck.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Bar Dinzler, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Music-bar Zappa is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe Katzung also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

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

Set your GPS to Hohenschwangau, Germany and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hohenschwangau beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Hohenschwangau Castle, a popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready, continue to Neuschwanstein Castle, a spectacular castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Waltenhofen may take around 4 min. Upon your arrival in Waltenhofen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at St. Coloman and explore the inviting features.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Zurich. 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 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Zurich's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cantinetta Antinori, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Lokal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aurora. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

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

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!