9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne, Innsbruck, and Munich

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Zurich in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, your home for 3 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the underrated Swiss National Museum, a respected museum in Zurich. Next, go to Grossmünster.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zurich and set your GPS to Lucerne. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Lucerne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lucerne is Lion Monument Lucerne, a notable monument that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Church Of St. Leodegar, a visually striking church that stands out in the city.

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 Chapel Bridge, a captivating historical landmark that offers a unique experience.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Lucerne’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Valentino, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Weisses Schloss, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bolero. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar 58, known for its lively atmosphere. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Penthouse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the night falls in Lucerne, 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 3, you will wake up in Lucerne with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Lucerne before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

Your adventure in Lucerne is only getting started when you visit Swiss Museum Of Transport, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Verkehrshaus Planetarium. This increasingly popular planetarium is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lucerne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This history-steeped historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ampersand, 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 Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, 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 Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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!

Dive into day 5 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 43 min. Upon your arrival in Innsbruck, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Golden Roof, a captivating historical landmark that everyone visiting Innsbruck should see. Next, head to Innenstadt. This romantic public square is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Innsbrucker Hofgarten, a romantic park popular among locals as well as travelers. Innsbruck Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this curiosity-inducing church before you continue your journey.

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

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 Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

Dine in style at Stiftskeller, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Thai-Li-Ba boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Breakfast Club. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Innsbruck.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Bar Dinzler, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Music-bar Zappa offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Innsbruck. Cafe Katzung is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 Munich in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Munich where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Innsbruck, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Munich, Germany. Your travel time is around 2 hours 3 min.

Deutsches Museum is a notable museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Viktualienmarkt, an eye-catching food market that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Hofgarten, a masterful park. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Marienplatz, an enchanting and truly unique public square.

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

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Munich's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Little London / Bar & Grill, a highly-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ginkgo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Garçon, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Zephyr Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Holy Spirit 1 Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Munich. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Make time for Nymphenburg Palace, a popular palace that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Bmw Museum, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Pinakothek Der Moderne. This art gallery is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Munich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit English Garden.

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 Munich.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gasthaus Isarthor, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zum Dürnbräu? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zum Alten Markt as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Munich.

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

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

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Hohenschwangau in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Munich and set your GPS to Hohenschwangau. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Hohenschwangau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Neuschwanstein Castle, a spectacular castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Next, explore Hohenschwangau Castle, yet another captivating place to see in the area.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Cantinetta Antinori, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Lokal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aurora. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Eldorado, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gotthard Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out La Stanza. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!