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Complete 7 Day Road Trip: Germany, Austria, Switzerland

September 22, 2022 April 3, 2023

7 Day Road Trip through Germany, Austria & Switzerland, Photo by Max Böttinger on Unsplash

Last updated on April 3rd, 2023 at 09:48 am

Do you want to experience 4 different countries in 7 days? This is the itinerary for you. It includes a 7 day road trip through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, but also, the sixth smallest country in the world, Liechtenstein! This is the perfect trip for you to make a good dent on your scratch map. The road trip begins and ends in Frankfurt.

How is driving in Germany, Austria & Switzerland?

What is the best time of year to travel to germany, austria & switzerland, is it expensive in germany, austria & switzerland, 1 night in frankfurt, 1 night in nuremburg, 1 night in munich.

Schloss Neuschwanstein
1 Night in Innsbruck
Liechtenstein

1 Night in Zurich

1 night in freiburg im breisgau, 1 night in baden baden, back to frankfurt.

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In Germany, there were a lot of roadworks so there may be areas where you have to drive very slowly through. So account for these delays when you are getting to the next stop of the route. This website has an interactive map that shows where the roadworks are, for what distance and the speed limit you have to do.
Munich is a nightmare to drive in so I would suggest parking on the outskirts of the City and getting public transport in.
Research parking before you get to each place so you are not stressed about where to park when you get there.
On the autobahn (motorway in Germany), there are certain sections where you can go as fast as you like, there is no speed limit. These areas are marked by a white sign with 4 black diagonal lines. So unless you have a powerful car, try keep to the slow lane because there will be cars zooming past so fast, you will barely see them.
When entering Austria, you need a vignette for the windscreen of your car. You can buy this 10 day toll sticker for about €6 online or via petrol stations, newsagents or post offices. Find more information on the Austrian vignette toll sticker here .
In Switzerland, you need to have a vignette too. Buy the one that lasts 1 year (that is the one you need) and it will cost about €35. You can buy it in petrol stations or online. Visit this website for more information on the Swiss vignette.

Autumn is the best time to do this trip. We went at the start of November and driving through the Black Forest was stunning with the multi-coloured leaves surrounding us.

What’s more, in some of the cities, they were starting to get ready for the Christmas festivities – setting up the Christmas markets and mulled wine could be bought everywhere or Gluhwein as they call it.

As well as this, driving to Austria was very scenic as the mountains were covered in snow.

Germany is quite cheap when you compare it to many of its western neighbours. I was delighted with myself when I could get a pretzel the size of my head for €1 for my breakfast and beer that was under €4. We found Austria cheap as well, similar to Germany. Here, I was drinking cocktails for €3.

But be mindful that Switzerland, on the other hand, is far more expensive. We went to an Irish pub and it was €30 for a burger, chips and a beer!! We only got one meal in Switzerland and waited until we were over the border in to Germany to get our breakfast the next morning.

Romerberg, road trip Germany, Austria, Switzerland

I think a good starting and ending point on the road trip through Germany, Austria & Switzerland is Frankfurt as it has a major international airport with flights arriving from all over the world (Frankfurt Airport or FRA), so it is a good option if you are coming by plane. This City is quite industrialised as it is a major financial hub and home to the European Central Bank.

In Frankfurt, we walked around the City, the old town and Romerberg was a really nice part of the City. As well as this, we climbed the main tower and got a 360 view over Frankfurt. But, I would suggest to spend no more than one day here.

Where to stay in Frankfurt for one night?

Hotel Miramar am Romer is a nice option which is about €80 per night for a double room. It is a 3 star hotel, located centrally.
We stayed at Main Hotel Frankfurt City . It was €40 for the night for a double room and shared bathroom. If you are on a tight budget, this is fine. It was really basic, more like a hostel, than a hotel. It was nothing special and fairly old, but it did the job for 1 night.
a&o Frankfurt Ostend hostel is an option which may be a good option for those travelling on their own. It is around €40 per night for a bed in a female or mixed 6 bed dorm. It is about 2.6km from city centre.

Driving time: 2 hours 50 minutes On day 2 of this 7 day itinerary, head to Nuremburg. We didn’t know much about it before going, but it was surprisingly nice. We paid a visit to the Nuremberg Castle and walked by the City Walls. The Lorzenkirche is a lovely church in the Centre and we had a browse around the market Square too.

Where to Stay in Nuremburg?

If you are looking for a hostel, the 5 reasons hostel is a good choice. It is located in the city centre and you can get a bed in a dorm for as little as €28 per night.
We stayed at Ibis Hotel Nurnberg Alstadt . It was €59 for 1 night for a standard queen room. It was really nice and just a short walk from the town and all the main attractions.
If you have more to spend then Park Inn by Radisson Nürnberg seems to be a good option. It is around €75 per night and has great reviews.

Munich, Germany, Austria, Switzerland itinerary 7 days

Driving time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Munich is known for its beer and Oktoberfest, the annual celebration. I remember looking up everywhere I went because the buildings were so big.

While we were in Munich, we went to see a Soccer match at the Allianz Arena. I have no interest in soccer and only went because I am a sound girlfriend, but the stadium was actually really cool. The outside of the stadium was lit up in red as we were entering and there was a great atmosphere inside.

Where to Stay in Munich?

For a budget friendly hostel, you can stay at Jaegers Munich . You can get a bed in dorm for just €24 per night. The ratings are very good.
Hotel Eder is a great mid range option, around €90 per night. The location is great, just a 3-minute walk from Munich Main train Station. The rankings are very good across the board, but especially good on value for money.
If you are looking for a more high end place to stay with great reviews and central location, you can check out Hotel Concorde a 4 star hotel. A room here is about €200 per night.

A visit to Schloss Neuschwanstein

Driving time: 1 hour 50 minutes Stop at Schloss Neuschwanstein on you way to Innsbruck, you will not regret it. This castle was built in the 19th Century, based near the town of Fussen on the Austrian border with such beautiful surroundings.

We did not purchase any tickets and just walked around the outside. But you have the option to enter and get a guided tour here . The walk up to the castle from the road can takes about 30 minutes but you have the option of getting a shuttle bus also when you are there.

When you get to the top, there is a place selling hot drinks, we paid €5 each for a coffee and you get to keep the cup (they are proper cups with a picture of the castle on them).

1 night in Innsbruck

Innsbruck - Road trip Germany, Austria, Switzerland

Driving time: 1 hour 50 minutes The drive is really cool to Innsbruck, we had a view of snow covered mountains and you pass through many tunnels that go through the mountains. The town of Innsbruck is really scenic as the mountains are right beside it.

While we were here, we got a cable car to the top of Innsbruck. It was a very worthwhile experience and I would highly recommend it. We booked our tickets with get your guide. If you want to go too, you can book your tickets here .

Where to stay in Innsbruck?

In Innsbruck, we stayed in Montagu Hostel , it was really nice, clean, basic accommodation. I would highly recommend it. We stayed in the standard double room and it was €72 for the night.
B&B Hotel Heimgartyl has very good ratings on booking.com. It is located very well. 15 min walk from the town and 5 minutes from the cable car. It is around €90 per night for a double room.
If you want to go all out, you can stay in Hotel Maximilian , a 4 star hotel for about €180 per night. It has a superb ranking on booking.com and is centrally located.

A quick stop in Liechtenstein

Driving time: 2 hours 20 minutes On route to Zurich, choose to go by Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. It is more or less on the way anyway. We stopped here for a walk around the town. There is a nice view of Vaduz Castle, which is situated up on a hill.

Driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes

On day 4 of this 7 day road trip, make way to Zurich. Zurich is the financial capital of Switzerland, a very expensive city. It is a nice to stroll around and take in the old town.

Where to Stay in Zurich for one night?

Green Marmot Capsule Hotel Zurich is a good, reasonably priced option. A single capsule is around €50 per night. Capsule hotels are basically many small bed sized rooms that are known as capsules and have a curtain at the entrance. It is reviewed very good.
We stayed in Hotel St. George’s for €117 for 1 night. It is a 2 star hotel and was really nice. I would recommend it.
A more high-end option would be Boutique Hotel Helmhaus Zürich , a 4 star hotel. A double room is about €350 per night here. The location is central and the reviews are great.

Driving time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Freiburg is among the Southern part of the Black Forest and is known for its medieval town centre. So, on the way to Freiburg, we got to see areas of the black forest. While you are here, you should take a stroll down the picturesque cobblestone streets and check out the shops along the way, it is a charming place.

Where to Stay in Freiburg?

The Black Forest Hostel is a good budget option, here you can get a single bed in a dorm for as little as €25. It is located well, just 0.8km from the centre.
We stayed at Hotel & Restaurant Sichelschmiede for the night. We booked the double room and paid €99. We really liked this accommodation. The room was above a restaurant/bar and the building is really pretty with rooms that have a real cosy feel to them.
If you want to treat yourself to a 4 star hotel, the try the Park Hotel Post. It is around €150 for 1 night for a double room. Breakfast is included. The location is great, situated in the old town. Also, the hotel offers free bicycle hire, which may be a nice way to explore Freiburg.

Black Forest Route

Black forest views on our 7 day road trip through Germany, Austria & Switzerland

From Freiberg, we joined the Bundesstrabe 500 or B500 around the location of ‘Fuhrer Hauptquartier Tannenberg’. The ideal route is to stay on this road to Baden Baden and this is the real height of the Black Forest. So, be sure to stop along the way, there are areas to pull in and go for a stroll up the mountain and take in the scenery.

Driving time: 2 hours 10 minutes

On the last day of our 7 day road trip in Germany, Austria & Switzerland, we opted to stay in Heidelberg. But I wished we stayed in Baden Baden as it looks to be a better option. My thoughts on Heidelberg is that it is good for shopping which is not what we were looking for. That is why I would recommend Baden Baden instead.

Baden Baden is located in the black forest and world renowned for it’s Roman bath culture. Caracalla spa and Friedrichsbad are the 2 most well known so consider a visit to at least one. As well as this, it is a good base to go hiking in the black forest.

Where to Stay in Baden Baden?

Hotel Athos is around €90 per night for a double room. It has really good ratings and is located in a park just 10 minutes walk from the town centre.
Hotel Rathausglöckel a 4 star hotel, costing roughly €150 per night for a double room. It has great reviews and located in the old town.

Driving time: 2 hour 5 minutes

The final stop is returning to Frankfurt to catch your flight or continue to your next destination.

I hope you enjoyed this itinerary for a 7 day road trip through Germany, Austria & Switzerland and your journey is an enjoyable one. If you found this helpful, feel free to share it with your friends. Comment below your thoughts or experiences.

Thanks for reading,

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Don't forget to get travel insurance before you set out on your adventure. Safety Wing is a great choice and so reasonable.
If you are looking for accommodation, then Hostelworld or Booking.com are good options with plenty of accommodation choices.
Looking to book tours, entry tickets and more, check out Get your Guide.
Follow me on instagram @wandererlane 🙂

Germany Austria Switzerland Itinerary: 10 Days on the Road

You’ve decided on your Europe trip and you’re now wondering how to plan it. I can help with that!

I lived in Southern Germany (Stuttgart) for six years and traveled to Switzerland and Austria more times than I can count. Since it was just a few hours away, we went for festivals, ski trips, summer hiking, and exploring beautiful villages and cities.

While I don’t recommend trying to cram as much as possible into one trip, I think it’s very doable to visit these three countries within 10 days.

I’m sharing what I think is the best 10-day Germany, Austria & Switzerland itinerary that’ll show you how to make the most out of your time.

With this itinerary, you will stay within certain regions of each country so you’re not on the road the entire time.

You’ll have a mix of scenery, busy days, tours, and downtime. The goal is to divide your time over as many activities and places as possible without rushing through them.

Overall, you’ll be splitting your time nearly evenly in each country.

Keep reading for all the details about this itinerary. Every detail has been thought out for the most memorable trip you can have!

Downtown Innsbruck Austria Mountains Summer

Why Combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on the Same Trip?

We all know Europe is full of amazing countries with wonderful spots for traveling, so why does this trip include Germany, Austria, and Switzerland instead of someplace else like Italy, Spain, or France? And why only these 3 countries?

Well, this combination has logical, geographical, and experience-related motives.

They’re Close

First, it simply makes sense to combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. These 3 countries are very close to one another – they literally share borders.

If you check a map of central Europe, you’ll see that Germany borders both Switzerland and Austria from the south, whereas Austria is to the east of Switzerland.

They Have the Same Language

Another reason why it’s a good idea to combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland into one trip is the common language.

All 3 of these countries speak German. It’s one of the 4 official languages of Switzerland and the sole official one in Austria.

If you don’t speak German, this combination means you can learn some basic phrases in German and use them for all the places you’ll visit.

This isn’t an obligation since you can get by just fine with English, but showing you know a few phrases goes over well with locals.

They’re Versatile and Have a Lot to Offer

Last but not least, combining Germany, Austria, and Switzerland gives you a rich experience with a wide range of activities to satisfy different interests.

These countries have natural landscapes with lakes, waterfalls, rivers, mountains, and more. They have historical sites, museums, art, architecture, adventures like hiking or paragliding, and cuisine among many other cultural aspects.

This means you’re guaranteed to enjoy your visit no matter what you’re looking to do.

Are 10 Days Enough for Visiting Germany, Austria, and Switzerland?

The answer to this heavily depends on your travel style and what you’re looking to accomplish with the trip.

If you’re a home base type of traveler who likes to deeply explore a single location at a time, 10 days likely won’t be enough for you to thoroughly cover even 1 of the countries.

If you’re a go-go-go traveler who aims to see as much as possible of the places they go, then 10 days are probably enough to see a lot of the 3 countries since they’re quite close to one another. However, this approach isn’t the most comfortable or rewarding in my opinion.

If you prefer a balanced approach, then I believe 10 days will be enough for you to experience and enjoy a bit of each country to a pretty satisfying level. This travel style is what I’ve gone for with this itinerary.

How to Get Around During a Germany, Austria, and Switzerland Trip?

Making your way around Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (or Europe in general) is basically a choice between 2 means of transportation: car or train.

Each option has its pros and cons, so I’ll highlight them in this section to help you choose what works best for you.

Taking a Car

This itinerary was created for a car, but you can just as easily take a train too.

The upside of getting around with a car is that you don’t need to worry about sticking to a departure schedule. You can set off according to your own time and you’ll never miss your ride.

A car can also be the faster method to reach some places since you can take shortcuts and don’t have to make stops along the way. Not to mention, taking a car allows you to go on side trips and make detours.

That said, taking a car in Europe can be more expensive than taking a train. Not only because of the rental cost but also the gas and road tax.

Vignette : Austria and Switzerland both require a vignette, which is a sticker you purchase at a gas station or store to go on your windshield. In Austria, you’ll spend less than 20EUR, but the Swiss vignette runs about 40-45USD (depending on the exchange rate).
Gas : Gas in Europe is much more expensive than in the US, about 3-4 times the cost.
Car Rental : Compared to places like the US, a rental car will be considerably cheaper in Europe. Typically you can find a small to midsize sedan for $30-50/day. I always book through Discover Cars , an aggregate company that helps you find the best prices (often lower than through the company directly). They also have fantastic customer service, which can be hard to find in the rental car industry.

Driving in Europe can sound daunting, but these three countries are fairly easy to navigate. The roads are well-maintained and drivers follow the rules of the road. There are plenty of well-marked signs and it’s likely that your rental will have GPS included.

Taking a Train

While in Europe, trains are a great way to get around. They’re fast, clean, and efficient (especially in these countries!). And train stations are in the center of towns or cities, so once you disembark you’re not too far from your hotel.

They’re also pretty affordable, so you can save much of your budget for the actual visit. Also, you’ll be relieving yourself from the hassle of driving in a new/foreign country.

The downside to trains, however, is having to plan your time around their schedule. Besides the lack of flexibility, you’re also likely to take a longer time to get to your destination by train vs by car.

Some of these trips require multiple connections, so you’ll need to pay attention as well.

Additionally, some places are tricky to reach by train. You’ll get off at the nearest point but have to figure out how to make it to the specific spot you want to visit.

There are many different ways to book train tickets in Europe which deserves its own post. I priced out this trip in May via RailEurope and it is $324 per person (I’m looking about 9 months out). With the Eurail Pass, it’s $292 (but you still need to pay a few euros to reserve seats).

The Eurail Pass is more flexible (i.e. you can change train times if there are open seats) which can be more appealing. Please note the train from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden cannot be booked via Eurail.

Booking your train tickets early is key to finding low prices. If you wait until the last minute, you could end up spending a lot more on your tickets.

Children under 15 travel free via train.

TRIP OVERVIEW & MAP 10 DAYS SWITZERLAND | AUSTRIA | GERMANY ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arrive in Zurich & Head to Lucerne DAY 2: Lucerne to Interlaken/Lauterbrunnen DAY 3: Grindelwald & Junfraujoch DAY 4: Travel to Innsbruck & Overnight DAY 5: Travel to Salzburg & Explore DAY 6: Berchtesgaden | Königsee | Eagle’s Nest DAY 7: Salzburg Day Trip DAY 8: Travel to Munich & Explore DAY 9: Neuschwanstein Day Trip DAY 10: Fly Home

Click on map below to see full map in Google Maps.

Germany Austria Switzerland 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1: arrival in zurich & head to lucerne.

Distance by car: 52.5km (32 miles)
By Train: 40-60 minutes, no connections
Country: Switzerland
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

Your 10-day trip to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland will start with your landing in Zurich, Switzerland’s capital

Assuming you arrive early in the morning, you’ll have 3 full days to explore Switzerland.

With this itinerary, I didn’t plan a day in Zurich because it’s a massive business city and one of the most expensive in the world. The town of Lucerne is much more quintessential Switzerland and a much cuter town.

If you would like to get a taste of the city, however, I recommend heading to the old town (Altstadt) and exploring for a few hours before heading to Lucerne. It’s only 6 miles from the airport to the city center and easily accessed via train or car.

Lucerne is only about 45 minutes from Zurich, so you could spend most of your day in Zurich and then make your way to Lucerne for the evening.

If you decide to head straight to Lucerne (which I highly suggest), here’s how to spend your day.

Grab a bite before on your way to Lucerne or have breakfast when you get there. Some of my favorite places to fill up on breakfast or lunch are Richemont Gastronomioe , Mill’Feuille , and Antons Restaurant .

After food, you’ll start exploring the old and new towns. You can walk around on your own or join a walking tour such as the one to Chapel Bridge and Old Town or one with a local via LocalBini.

While exploring the old town, don’t miss the sight of the iconic Lion Monument. It dates back to the 1820s and pays tribute to the Swiss Guards who were murdered during the French Revolution.

Lion's Head image summer lucerne, switzerland

You can also wander along the lake or catch a boat ride over it with a 1-hour cruise .

If you’re into museum visits, here are some great options such as the Richard Wagner Museum, Sammlung Rosengart Museum, Swiss Museum of Transportation, or Chocolate Adventure Pavilion.

Don’t forget to snap some pictures at the Chapel Bridge. It’s a covered wooden footbridge that crosses the river Reuss. It contains various interior paintings dating back to the 1600s and features a unique flower pot decor along its guard rails.

When dinner time rolls in, be sure to try the country’s world-famous dishes such as fondue, raclette, Älplermagronen, and Rösti. Among my top restaurants for Swiss cuisine are Restaurant Balances , Hermitage , and Gasthaus Schlüssel .

Hotel Recommendations

Most hotels are located in the Old Town, so head over to Waldstatterhof Swiss Quality Hotel or Ibis Styles Luzern for the night whenever you’re ready.

Day 2: Exploring Lauterbrunnen & Interlaken

Distance by car: 67.6km (42 miles)
By Train: 2.5-3.5hrs (1+ connections)

Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or at one of the restaurants I mentioned above. Then, you’ll leave from Lucerne to Lauterbrunnen.

Lauterbrunnen looks like something out of a storybook. Here you’ll see mountains jutting out of the ground and 72 waterfalls all over the mountain valley.

These mountains are sheer rock faces overlooking a wide valley. It was formed by glaciers over millions of years. You’ll often spot base jumpers and other extreme sports enthusiasts enjoying nature’s playground.

Interlaken is a beautiful little town between the green glacial lakes of Thunersee and Brienzersee (‘see’ means lake). It’s about a 20-minute drive from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen, and you can stay at either location for beautiful views (although Lauterbrunnen sits right in the valley).

Tip: This area has many cable cars going up mountains, boat rides on the lakes, funiculars, and trains to the tops of mountains. There are a lot of ways to see this area! If you want to dig in and explore, I recommend purchasing the Jungfrau Travel Pass . It covers nearly everything with a few exceptions that you can read about here .

Here are my top recommendations for a day in Lauterbrunnen:

WALK THROUGH THE BEAUTIFUL VALLEY FLOOR

Make your way into the valley and park at Lauterbrunnen. From here, walk one of the many trails throughout the valley. You could go on for miles or take a quick stroll.

If you want to really see all the highlights, though, book this guided tour from Interlaken . You’ll see the best waterfalls in the area and learn about the history of this beautiful valley. This is a great option especially if you don’t have a car.

GO PARAGLIDING IN INTERLAKEN

Paragliding in Interlaken was my absolute favorite activity the last time we visited the area. We went nearly 10 years ago and we still talk about it today. It was a highlight for sure! Because you just drove in today, I recommend doing this early the next morning so you can really explore the valley. I booked with this tour company and loved them.

Paragliding in Interlaken Switzerland Summer

VISIT TRÜMMELBACH FALLS

Trümmelbach is the only glacier waterfall in the world that can be accessed underground. These are Europe’s largest subterranean waterfalls and are impressive to see in person.

There are three glaciers feeding meltwater through here to create these falls. And it’s a lot of water! At 20,000 liters per second, you can imagine how powerful and mighty these falls are.

HIKE ONE OF THE WATERFALL TRAILS

There are tons of hiking opportunities throughout the massive valley. And some lead to villages such as Murren or Wengen.

Some hotels I’d recommend for your stay are Chalet Rosa B&B and Hotel Oberland .

If you don’t wish to stay in Lauterbrunnen, there are so many options in this area. One time we stayed at this small hotel in Le issigen, a small town above Lake Thun (Thunersee). I liked it here because it’s so quiet and you stay at a traditional Swiss mountain home that’s been converted into a hotel.

Day 3: Exploring Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

Distance by car: 20.3km (12 miles) to Grindelwald. Train required after Grindelwald.
By Train: 43 minutes to Grindelwald. Then train to Jungfraujoch.

Today you’ll head to Grindelwald and then to Jungfraujoch, called the Top of Europe. This trip takes a bit of time so I recommend starting early. To reach Jungfraujoch, you need to take a train from Grindelwald.

Grindelwald is a small Swiss village in the beautiful Swiss Alps. It’s also a great launching point for Jungfraujoch, a massive mountain at 11,000ft and the tallest in Europe!

GO TO THE TOP OF JUNGFRAUJOCH

From Grindelwald, you can take the Eiger Express train to the top and back (be sure to book these tickets ahead of time). When you book, you can select how long you wish to stay at the top. There’s plenty to do, including seeing the longest glacier in Europe, taking in the sweeping views, and exploring an underground ice palace with ice sculptures.

I recommend going up Jungfraujoch in the morning so you can spend your afternoon at Grindelwald, but it’s really up to you how you want to plan your day. I prefer to not feel like I’m waiting around to board a train, so I prefer to do those activities in the morning and then be free to explore the rest of the day.

EXPLORE GRINDELWALD

Grindelwald itself has tons to do. Since you’re short on time, I recommend walking the town and grabbing a bite to eat.

For something more adventurous, there’s plenty to do! Soar like an eagle on a fast-moving glider , walk on the cliff walk overlooking the mountains below, or drive a mountain cart , among other things. Note that some of these things require a gondola or cable car ride.

If you prefer to keep your feet planted, go on one of the many hikes in the region such as the Kleine Scheidegg .

At the end of the day make your way back to Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen for your last night in Switzerland.

Day 4: Explore Innsbruck

Distance by car: 380km (236 miles)
By Train: 6-7 hours with 3+ connections
Country: Austria
Currency: Euro

The following morning you’ll travel from Interlaken to Innsbruck, a cute college town in the mountains of Austria.

This town makes for a great stopping point between Switzerland and Salzburg.

If you went straight through, the drive would take about 7 hours (assuming there’s zero traffic and you don’t stop), and even longer via train. So I recommend a stopover night in this beautiful and historic town to break up your trip.

I also like this drive because you go through some spectacular mountain scenery, and even cross through the small country of Liechtenstein (look out for the black license plates!).

If you prefer something a bit quieter, I recommend looking into the Achensee, a pretty Alpine lake about 55km (34 miles) from Innsbruck.

If you’re driving, don’t forget to get a Vignette sticker before you cross the border to Austria. It‘ll cost you around 10 EUR, and if you don’t buy one you could get a huge fine of over 100EUR. Vignettes are available at all gas stations.

Since the drive will fill a good portion of your day, here is how I recommend spending your afternoon/evening:

Walk the cute old town (Altstadt) and check out some of the shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Visit OlympiaWorld and learn about the 1976 Olympics.
Climb the town tower for beautiful views.

Each time we’ve been to Innsbruck, we’ve stayed at these beautifully maintained apartments just up the hill from the old town. There are hiking trails from the apartment and a lovely farm-to-table restaurant on the mountainside called Gasthaus Planötzenhof Andreas Heis . If you like pretty views with your meal, then I recommend this place!

Day 5: Explore Salzburg

Distance by car: 166km (103 miles)
By Train: 2 hours, no connections

Today you will make your way to Salzburg, just a few hours from Innsbruck. As you’re likely tired from all this travel, you’ll get a chance to relax and enjoy a few nights in the Salzburg area.

Expect more scenic views and an easy drive. If you’re driving, there are three routes to get there, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.

When you arrive at Salzburg (aka the City of Mozart ), you’ll probably be ready to explore.

Make your way to the Old Town (Altstadt). It’s a small but packed old town filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and cathedrals.

A must-see spot is Mozart’s birthplace at the intersection of Hagenauerplatz Square and Getreidegasse Street.

There are various walking tours, but you can easily walk yourself. If you want to learn about the history of the area, I recommend this 2.5-hour tour that starts at Palace Mirabell and takes you through the Makartplatz, New & Old Town, Mozart’s Birthplace and ends at the top of Mönchsberg Hill (optional).

You’ll also see River/Mozartsteg, Toscanini Hof, St. Peter’s Cemetery/Church, Alter Markt, Mirabell Gardens, Kapitelplatz, and many more places.

There are also food tours where you can see the city while experiencing Austrian cuisine. I recommend this one for food tasting or this one for beer tasting in Old Town

It’s hard to miss the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress perched above the Altstadt. To get there, you can either walk the switchback path to it or take the funicular for about 5EUR (ascent and descent, admission included).

Once at the top, get ready to be blown away by the 360 views. Explore the medieval interior of Europe’s largest intact medieval castle. You can see the Salzburg Bull, the Archbishop Chapel, Golden Hall, and Golden Chamber.

Don’t go back down too soon. You can take the Monchsberg road to reach Augustiner bräu – Kloster Mülln, Austria’s largest beer tavern. For a delicious meal, try the Gasthaus Burgschenke .

My top recommendation for dinner is the Mozart Dinner Concert at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium in the old town. It’s the oldest restaurant in Central Europe.

Call it a night at Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg or MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center .

Day 6: Explore Salzburg/Berchtesgaden

Distance by car: 34.6km (21 miles)
By Train: 1 hour with 1 connection
Country: Germany & Austria

Since Berchtesgaden is a short distance from Salzburg, we’ll keep our base in the city and do a day trip from here.

Today you’ll go on a day trip to Berchtesgaden, a national park with the looming Eagle’s Nest. There are a few options for your day, depending on your interests:

TAKE A BOAT RIDE AT KÖNIGSEE

The Koenigsee is a beautiful large lake in the southern German Alps. There’s a popular boat ride that takes you along the lake to St. Bartholomew’s Church. They even have a trumpet player that shows you how well this mountain valley can echo! Once at the church, you have time for lunch and a drink before heading back. It’s a beautiful way to spend the day.

Lake Konigsee Berchestgaden Winter St Bathrolomews church

VISIT THE EAGLE’S NEST

Alternative to Lake Königsee, you can visit Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest at the top of Mount Kehlstein and the Documentation Museum. You can take a guided tour from Salzburg or a bus directly from Salzburg to the documentation center.

You can also drive yourself as well.

Once you’re done exploring, head back and recharge for the next day.

Day 7: Explore Around Salzburg: Hallstatt | Sound of Music Tour

Distance by car: Varies
By Train: Bus only

In and around Salzburg, there are many day trips and activities that you can enjoy early in the morning. Here are some of my recommendations.

Sound of Music Tour : you’ll visit locations used in the movies, hear songs, take photos, and enjoy the countryside.
Day Trip to Hallstatt : hike up the Salzberg mountain and enjoy the view of the sunrise from the Skywalk (with a photographer)
Bike Tour Around Salzburg : about 3.5 hours through the city and countryside.

Hallstatt has become really popular in the past few years, but there are many other lakes in the area. Surrounding Salzburg, there are a total of nine lakes in this region.

Mondsee is a good option for a cute town on a pretty lake (but you won’t have the same striking town as Hallstatt). This lake is also on the Sound of Music tour as well. Attersee is the largest in the region and the most striking with mountains in the background.

Alternative Option: If you’re excited to get to Munich, you could alternatively head there today to have an extra day to explore.

Day 8: Explore Munich

Distance by car: 147km (91 miles)
Country: Germany

Today you’ll make your way to Munich, the beautiful capital of Bavaria and home to BMW.

Although it’s a large city, the central area is quite walkable and easy to navigate.

There is also a robust train system. The trains within cities in Germany are called ‘U-Bahn’, so look for those signs when walking around. Tickets can be purchased at the kiosks directly at the stations, or you can use their app to book your tickets.

EXPLORE MARIENPLATZ

Once you arrive and get settled, head to the center of town, Marienplatz. This has been Munich’s center square since 1158. I recommend walking around the area and exploring the shops and one of the many breweries.

You’ll see the New and Old Rathaus (town hall), St. Peter’s Church, and the Marian Column among many others. Interestingly, this place was rebuilt in the traditional style years after its demolition at the end of WWII, so it may not be physically old, but it looks the part.

CLIMB ST PETER’S TOWER & GLOCKENSPIEL SHOW

From there, make your way to St. Peter’s Tower (best to arrive about 30 minutes before 11 or 12 to make the climb before the show starts). Go up to the observation point for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the Platz and a chance to catch the Glockenspiel show away from the crowds.

The Glockenspiel show is a 15-minute spectacle that reenacts bits of the city’s history. It takes place at 11 and 12 daily, ending with 3 chirps from a golden rooster at the top of the square’s mechanical clock.

TAKE A WALKING TOUR

If you’re into walking tours, there are many free options that start right at Marienplatz.

For something a bit more in-depth, I recommend this 1.5-hour tour of the inner city. It starts at the Marienplatz, showing you the highlights, and then heads to the Frauenkirche church, the Royal Brewery, as well as the cathedral and Theatine Church. The tour ends at the Viktualienmarkt.

When it’s time for lunch, the daily food market (Viktualienmarkt) is a fantastic option. It’s about 4 minutes from the city center. Alternatively, you can go to a beer garden for a meal and a drink.

After eating and depending on how late it is, you can explore Munich’s iconic cathedral; the Frauenkirche, the Nymphenburg Palace, or the English Garden.

WALK THE ENGLISH GARDEN

The English Garden (Englisch Garten) is a massive public park in the center of Munich. It’s even larger than Central Park.

Inside there is a huge network of trails that can keep you busy for days. If you prefer a guide to show you around, there are some great tours like this one (via GetYo urGuide) that take you through Marienplatz and the English Garden.

The English Garden is close to Marienplatz, so you can simply head here once you’re done exploring the Marienplatz area.

Here are my top 3 things to do:

Watch people surf at the Eisbachwelle . This is located at the very south end of the English Garden next to a road. But stopping here is worth it! I thought it was so fun to watch people surfing in the center of a huge city. If you are heading to the English Garden from Marienplatz, you can stop here first.
Visit the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) . The Chinese Tower was built as an observation tower. Sadly it was destroyed in WWII, but has been rebuilt in its former style. The second largest beer garden is here, and it’s a great place to grab a beer and have something to eat. It’s about a 15-20 minute walk (less than a mile) from the surfing area.
Stroll Around and Explore . Aside from the beer garden (biergarten) at the Chinese Tower, there are many other biergartens and restaurants inside the park. There’s also a Japanese Tea House, areas to relax in the grass, ponds, and even a sheep farm.

DINNER AT A BREWERY

Wrap up the day at the Hofbrauhaus restaurant near Marienplatz (a 5-minute walk) for a taste of German cuisine, beer, and atmosphere. The Augustiner restaurant is also a great choice (a 20-minute walk from Marienplatz) with its delicious beer, schnitzel, and maultaschen.

For accommodation, I recommend the Arthotel Munich or Bento Inn Munich Messe .

Day 9: Explore Neuschwanstein Castle

Distance by car: 109km (67 miles)
By Train: 3+ hours each way with bus connections (I recommend a tour instead, see below)

Today you’ll be going on a day trip to Füssen, south of Munich.

If you have time, start with a hefty white sausage breakfast – classic Bavaria style. It’s called Weißwurst in Germany, and you can have a tasty one at Schneider Brauhaus, Airbraeu Brauhaus, or Hofbraeukeller.

Füssen is the town that sits at the base of Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany’s most famous castle. It’s the inspiration behind Disney’s castle in Sleeping Beauty.

Neuschwanstein Castle from Marienbrucke Bridge Fussen Germany

The fastest way to get to the castle from Munich is by car, and there’s also the option to take the train (which requires many connections).

Or, you can book an inexpensive day tour like this one and have everything done for you. This is my personal recommendation to avoid parking, purchasing tickets, and a lot of waiting.

I recommend booking your tour ahead of time as the line can get really long quickly.

There are actually a few castles in this area. The tour of Neuschwanstein is a bit anti-climactic, so if you don’t want to wait in line for tickets, you can simply walk up to the castle and explore the courtyard.

The Marienbrücke Bridge is where you can get the famous photo (see above) of the castle. It’s free and is a short walk to the right.

Please keep in mind the bridge site is high above a gorge and can get absolutely packed with people. The boards you walk on are not well secured either, so take caution if you decide to walk across it. From here you can continue a bit further up for even better views (note it is steep).

The only way to avoid the crowds is to arrive early.

Photo of Marienbrucke Bridge Neuschwanstein Castle Germany Summer

If you’re into a mesmerizing, adrenaline-packed activity, don’t miss out on paragliding in the Alps (over the castle too!). F ly Royal is a fantastic team to book this activity with; you’ll take off from Tegelberg Mountain and the duration of the flight depends on the package you choose.

Alternatively, you can stay on the ground and explore the lake, take a bus or train ride through the castle’s surroundings, go to vantage points, and discover the tale of King Ludwig, it’s all in this tour .

Once you’re done exploring the castle and area, you’ll head back to Munich. That’s your chance to get your fill of Bavarian beer and cuisine at Steinheil 16, Schiller Brau, and Servus Heidi.

Day 10: Munich/Departure

The last day is all about wrapping up your time in Munich and making your way to the airport to fly back home. If you have time, you can do some last-day shopping at Maximilianstrasse.

If you’re flying from Munich Airport, it’ll take you about 30 minutes by car and around 1 hour by train from the center of Munich.

If you’re departing from Zurich Airport (only because you booked a two-way ticket), a car drive will take you there in about 3 to 4 hours while a train will do it in 5 to 6 hours. Be sure to factor in construction or train delays so you don’t miss your flight.

Things to Keep In Mind When Traveling to Germany, Austria & Switzerland

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind during your Germany, Austria & Switzerland trip:

All 3 countries speak German, so you only need to learn common phrases in that one language. That saves you a lot of time and hassle, although English will get you by just fine.
All 3 countries are included in the Schengen visa agreement.
Germany and Austria use the Euro, but Switzerland uses the Swiss franc.
Scheduling your trip during the shoulder season (March through April and September through November) should get you lower rates and fewer crowds.
While getting around by train is more affordable and less confusing, it typically takes longer and may not reach all locations.
Getting around by car is more costly and forces you to worry about direction/parking, it offers more flexibility and usually takes less time.

Final Thoughts

That brings us to the end of a full-packed 10-day Germany, Austria & Switzerland itinerary for an unforgettable trip. The only thing left for you to do is actually get the show on the road!

I'm Brea, an Alaskan with a serious case of wanderlust. Join me as I share insider information and firsthand accounts to help with your travels. Find destination guides, itineraries, general travel tips, learn how to take better photos, and more! Follow me on Instagram for all my up-to-date travels @travelingigloo

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Ultimate Germany and Switzerland Itinerary (7-14 Days)

HOW TO SEE GERMANY AND SWITZERLAND IN 7-14 DAYS

Table of Contents

Germany and Switzerland are both fascinating countries to visit – both offer diverse attractions and activities. You surely cannot go wrong with planning a Germany and Switzerland itinerary to see some of the most beautiful places in Europe. Given the geography, it is quite easy to visit both countries on one trip, one after another.

And though Switzerland is not part of the EU, it is part of the Schengen Agreement. This will allow you to visit it if you have a visa for the EU. So, today I share my favorite tips with you so that you can have a fantastic trip to Germany and Switzerland. Whether you visit for 7, 10, or 14 days – this itinerary for Switzerland and Germany will help you plan your trip.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR GERMANY AND SWITZERLAND ITINERARY

So, as a German and Switzerland enthusiast, I share my tips for having an amazing time in Switzerland and Germany.

HOW TO GET AROUND SWITZERLAND AND GERMANY

Driving in Germany

The streets are mostly well-paved and safe, and people drive well. However, there are a lot of construction projects on the motorways which often result in traffic jams.
There are many motorway streets without speed limits, but many do have a speed limit you should stick to (speed cams are placed throughout the country). There are no tolls for cars in Germany.

Public Transportation in Germany

Getting around via trains and buses is actually easy and, overall, okay in Germany. The trains are not always on time, some connections might be canceled, and it isn’t cheap. However, compared to places that do not have any train service, I guess we Germans should consider ourselves lucky.

Driving in Switzerland

Mountain streets are usually a bit more challenging, but overall, I looooove driving in Switzerland. The roads are mostly well-paved and safe, and people drive well.
Check out my post with driving tips for Switzerland .

Public Transportation in Switzerland

You cannot go with when choosing public transportation in Switzerland.
Trains and buses are punctual and reliable. And the window views are out of this world.

TIP: If you plan to get around via public transportation, make sure to check out the Swiss Travel Pass, which is perfect for tourists.

There are different Swiss Travel Passes available regarding flexibility and duration. Flexible passes allow you to use the pass for a certain amount of days within one month or the regular, more affordable option, which means you have to use the pass on consecutive days of travel.
Yes, the Swiss Travel Pass is quite expensive but it will pay off.
You can use buses and trains without any extra costs .
Also, most boat cruises and some mountain excursions are included.
The Swiss Travel Pass also covers most museums and entrances to castles .
The great thing about it is that you never have to worry about finding parking spaces and instead use buses and trains.
Click here to find the rates for a Swiss Travel Pass.

COSTS OF TRAVELING TO GERMANY + SWITZERLAND

Prices always depend on where you stay, what kind of accommodation you choose, what mode of transport, and more. It is almost impossible to give numbers, but I will try (though it is very vague).

If you are a mid-budget traveler and travel with someone, you should expect to pay 120-250€ per person per day. This includes public transportation and eating out (in Switzerland, you should try to go vegetarian, as meat prices are high) but no alcohol.

The costs in Switzerland will probably be much higher if you eat out each day and use a lot of cable cars. Check out my tips for Switzerland on a budget here .

If you are on a budget, you can travel for less (assuming you stay in hostels and cook for yourself at least once in a while) – but public transportation or renting a car will always be quite high.

ARE SWITZERLAND AND GERMANY SAFE?

If you are a solo (female) traveler, you will be happy to hear that Switzerland and Germany are great to travel alone, and there are no extra precautions I take – except for avoiding dodgy areas (especially at night) and watching my surroundings. Just keep your eyes open and exercise common sense, and you should be fine as both are quite safe travel destinations overall.

MORE TIPS FOR GERMANY + SWITZERLAND

Bring your reusable water bottle and refill it at the hotel, etc. You can just refill your bottle with fresh mountain water from fountains in the southern parts of Germany an d Switzerland . Unless it says “KEIN TRINKWASSER, “ – then don’t drink it.
Tap water is fine in many places.
If you don’t like “Sparkling water,” then shy away from “Wasser mit Kohlensäure” and ask for “still” water. You will not get free tap water with your food (you might get a little glass of tap water if you order an espresso).
If you buy water bottles in Germany (or soft drinks in bottles or cans), you have to pay a small deposit of about 0.25€, which you will get back when you return it to any supermarket.
Credit and debit cards are accepted widely. However, in smaller shops and villages, that might not be the case.
You cannot pay at some ticket centers with your credit card, so always have cash on you (American Express is, unfortunately, not as widely accepted as Visa or MasterCard).

SWITZERLAND AND GERMANY ITINERARY FOR 7 DAYS

Munich – 1- 1,5 Days
Neuschwanstein Castle & Füssen – 1 Day
Lucerne – 1 Day
Interlaken – 3 Days

Travel Time Around 12 Hours in Total

With only one week in Switzerland and Germany, I focus on destinations that are very close to each other, so travel time is reduced. But these places are still stunning – so there is no compromise on the beauty, just on travel duration. However, to see some of the best places these countries have to offer, you will need to travel to some degree.

MUNICH – 1-1,5 DAYS

Munich is a perfect starting destination – with a big airport and many trains arriving in Munich, it is easy to start international travel here.

From lakes, and parks to museums, historical sites, and shopping opportunities: Munich has something for everyone. It is one of Germany’s biggest cities, so there are tons to do and see, but in this case, I suggest spending only 1 or 1.5 days in Munich.

THINGS TO DO IN MUNICH

Visit Marienplatz
Rest at English Garden
Visit Munich Residenz Palace
Check out Viktualienmarkt

NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE & FÜSSEN – 1 DAY

Then, early in the morning, continue your journey. The crowds will come, so early in the morning is really the best time to leave Munich).

One of the most beautiful and gorgeous pieces of architecture must be the Neuschwanstein Castle, south of Munich. However, it is very popular amongst visitors from all around the world, so be prepared to rub shoulders with many of them.

Spend the afternoon and evening in the cute town of Füssen and have dinner here before continuing your journey to Switzerland.

Tip: Since prices in Füssen (which are quite high for Germany) are still cheaper than in Switzerland, I suggest spending the night here.

Even with so few days in Germany, it is a perfect day trip as it is also close to the Swiss border.

THINGS TO DO IN/AROUND NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE & FÜSSEN

Get to Marienbrücke
Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
Walk around Alpssee (lake)
Visit Hohenschwangau Castle
Learn at the Museum of the Bavarian Kings
Check out more tips for Schloss Neuschwanstein here

You will have to skip many gorgeous places in Germany. However, in Switzerland, you will find out what “beyond breathtaking“ scenery really means.

LUCERNE – 1 DAY

Traveling from Füssen to Lucerne, whether by public transportation or car, will take several hours. One day in Lucerne is not a lot, so make the most of it by not arriving late.

Lucerne is one of the prettiest towns in Europe . Whether you come here in winter or during any other season, this place doesn’t disappoint.

Nestled between the Swiss Alps , this town offers the chance to have a city trip while being surrounded by stunning nature. That is also why I preferred Lucerne over Zurich for this itinerary.

After exploring the old town (and the famous Chapel Bridge) and marveling at the unique and historic buildings, you can add a mountain excursion for the afternoon.

THINGS TO DO IN LUCERNE

Explore the old town
Pass Chapel Bridge
Visit Lion Monument
Enjoy the Views from Mount Rigi
Spend time in Mount Pilatus
Here are more Lucerne travel tips

INTERLAKEN / JUNGFRAU – 3 DAYS

Then it is time to head to the final destination – may I introduce you to my most favorite area in the world?

The train ride , or drive, from Lucerne to Interlaken is scenic. If you take the train, make sure to take the Luzern-Interlaken Express (not all train rides have the same route and the Express trains are normally the most scenic ones).

If you road trip, plan in some time at Brüning Pass and have a cold drink while parking your car and enjoying the views.

Then spend the rest of your time in one of the most unique destinations in the world, where you will have an abundance of stunning lakes, mountain peaks, cute towns and villages, and more. Yes, I meant Interlaken.

There is surely no shortage of activities. And while Interlaken itself is cute, the scenery is actually what makes this place amazing.

I have spent many weeks in Interlaken – and I am sure, I will never tire. Check out my post on top activities to do in Interlaken for more tips.

THINGS TO DO IN INTERLAKEN IN 4 DAYS

Visit Oeschinensee (see picture) above
Explore Thun and Lake Thun
Go up Brienzer Rothorn and Lake Brienz
Explore Lautrebrunnen
more tips for Interlaken

With that itinerary, you will see some of the most beautiful places in Germany and Switzerland in only 7 days.

10 DAYS IN SWITZERLAND AND GERMANY ITINERARY

Munich – 1,5 Day
Eibsee or Rothenburg ob der Tauber – 1 Day
Zurich – 1 Day
Lucerne – 1,5 Day
Interlaken – 3,5 Days

Travel time is around 12 hours (with Eibsee) in total or 17 hours (Rothenburg ob der Tauber)

ROTHENBURG OB DER TAUBER – 1 DAY

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is north of Munich and also further away from Switzerland. However, this detour is actually well worth it.

Rothenburg is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany. What this actually means is that the old buildings are picture-perfect, and since Rothenburg is small, you can do quite a lot in half a day or a full day.

If you do not want to take the detour (which is somehow understandable since it takes about 2,5-3 hours one way) then I suggest heading to Eibsee which is Germany´s prettiest lake close to Neuschwanstein Castle.

THINGS TO DO IN ROTHEBURG OB DER TAUBER

Stroll the old town
Walk Around the Old Walls
Visit the Christmas Museum
Have a Coffee at Cafe Einzigartig
Check out more travel tips for Rothenburg

EIBSEE & ZUGSPITZE – 1 DAY

Located right at the foot of Zugspitze mountain it is a perfect place to explore what the German Alps have to offer.

Just walk around the Eibsee and have a picnic.

You have amazing mountain peaks in Switzerland but if you want to enjoy views from Germany´s highest mountain, Zugspitze, then you can also take a cable car to get up or hike up.

Tip: If you visit Eibsee and Füssen/Neuschwanstein Castle, I suggest visiting Eibsee first and then go to Neuschwanstein Castle.

ZURICH – 1 DAY

In Switzerland, I suggest adding Zurich to your itinerary for one day.

It will be the first stop in Switzerland coming from Germany. While I normally recommend staying 2 days in Zurich, one day is good to see the main sights.

Though Zurich is not the capital of Switzerland, it is the busiest and biggest city with the most expensive shopping street in the world (Bahnhofstrasse), a beautiful lake, and an old town that you should not miss during your day there.

THINGS TO DO IN ZURICH:

Stroll Bahnhofsstrase
Swim in Lake Zurich (and do a boat Cruise)
Enjoy the views from Lindenallee
Explore the Old Town
Find more travel tips for Zurich here

After that, head to Lucerne and follow the itinerary I talk about for 7 days.

GERMANY AND SWITZERLAND FOR 14 DAYS

This 2-week itinerary will allow you to visit even more places in Germany, as well as in Switzerland. So, compared to the 10-day itinerary, you will have 2 new destinations and can spend 2 full days in Lucerne and Munich.

Also, you can give yourself more time to enjoy the actual traveling, as road tripping and train travel (at least in Switzerland) give you the option to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and you can take some rest and just soak in the beauty.

Berlin – 1,5 Days
Munich – 1,5 Days
Appenzellerland – 1 Day
Lucerne – 2 Days

BERLIN – 1,5-2 DAYS

Berlin is new on the 2-week itinerary. Germany´s capital is for sure an interesting place to visit. But it is located quite far up north, and with 10 days in both countries, you would stress yourself out too much by adding it to a shorter itinerary.

However, with 14 days, start your itinerary in Berlin and spend 1,5-2 days there.

It is quite a big city, but thanks to good public transportation, you can get around easily and see some of the best places in a short time.

Then either take a train to Munich or drive south (it is a rather long train ride, which takes around 6 hours) and stop in Rothenburg first before continuing your trip to Munich.

Tip: If you plan to rent a car, I suggest renting the car after your time in Berlin and not driving in the city itself. Even though taking a plane from Berlin to Munich may sound better at first, you will not save tons of time considering that the airport in Munich is very far from the city center, and then add in all the check-in times, etc.

THINGS TO DO IN BERLIN

Visit Brandenburger Tor
Head to Reichstag
Visit the Holocaust Memorial
Check out…Checkpoint Charlie
Stroll Gendarmenmarkt
Here are more travel tips for Berlin

APPENZELLERLAND – 1 DAY

Appenzellerland has become popular because of the stunning mountain restaurant, the Aescher. However, it is not on many Switzerland itineraries though it should be.

The Aescher is a mountain restaurant located on Ebenalp Mountain in the Alpstein area.

It is a unique destination and it is quite easy to get there (okay, only by cable car, if you hiked it would take 1-2 hours but it is quite steep).

On your way up – or down – make sure to also see Seealpsee (a beautiful mountain lake) and rest before continuing your journey.

You can either stay overnight at a guest house, which is located even higher than the Aescher, or you can book a room in the cute and colorful village of Appenzell.

I have added Appenzellerland to this itinerary because the landscape is different from many other places in Switzerland . Personally, it felt that no hills and mountains are greener and lusher than here, which makes driving here even more fun.

From there, continue your trip to Zurich and add the places mentioned above.

THINGS TO DO IN APPENZELLERLAND

Have lunch at the Aescher
Hike Up Ebenalp Mountain Guest House
Rest at Seealpsee
Explore Appenzell town center
More travel tips for Appenzellerland

CREATING A PERFECT SWITZERLAND & GERMANY ITINERARY

As you can see, you can combine your Switzerland and Germany trips quite easily. That surely will not be the most budget-friendly trip you can take, but it is a trip to remember!

And if you can make it happen, try to visit Switzerland and Germany for 14 days or at least 10 days.

Thanks to good public transportation in both countries you can just lay back and enjoy window views while getting around or you can rent a car and explore both countries by car. Either way, it surely will be fun!

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Your One Stop Shop For Travel Planning

10 day europe itinerary: germany, italy, switzerland + austria.

Want to travel to Europe, but only have 10 days? With this itinerary, you will get to see 4 European countries in as little as 10 days! Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Austria are all very close together, making it super easy to see them all.

This was my first trip abroad without my family, so I opted in for a tour with EF College Break . What was so nice about this tour was that it was all college students, so I made a ton of friends and we did things my age group would enjoy. On top of all that, it was extremely inexpensive for all that we got to see!

If you want to do a tour, I would definitely recommend looking into EF College Break. If you want to explore Europe on your own time, you can still do this itinerary by yourself.

For all the self-guided travelers out there… I have an epic (yes, EPIC) itinerary to France where you will get to see all the highlights. This itinerary is self-guided where you get to see Paris, the French Riviera, Provence, and go champagne tasting in Champagne! You can read my 10 day France itinerary here !

Okay, you ready to read this amazing 10 day Europe Itinerary?!

When to go to Europe?

This is a tricky question that will completely depend on the type of trip you want.

Want to see the alps covered in snow and eat fondue? Winter will be best!

Want to avoid crowds? Early spring and late fall will be best!

Want to enjoy prime weather and loads of events? Summer will be best!

I traveled to Europe in late May and it was absolutely beautiful . The crowds were minimal in comparison to the high seasons of June-August, and the weather was ranging from 60-80 degrees (depending on the country). The crowds in Europe hot-spots (especially Venice) will be unbearably crowded. Before you book during the prime summer months, just take that into consideration!

Tour v. No Tour?

I think it depends on your budget and if you are traveling with someone. I didn’t feel comfortable driving in Europe at 19 years old, so the only other way to see multiple countries would be to take trains or fly, which can add up quick!

I loved this tour group because it was all college age students, so I made friends from all over the world and we did a lot of excursions people my age group would do. Also, this tour company gave us SO much free time so even if the tour doesn’t see everything you want, you still have the time to see it.

EF College Break Tour to Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

Typically, I prefer to do self-guided travels because I can wake up as early as I want to see sights, mix and match what I want to see, eat when I want, etc. Of course there will be more stress planning your own trip abroad, but I think the benefit outweighs the cost!

What to Pack for Summer in Europe?

I keep a list of all my summer essentials and favorite finds on this guide here . I am constantly updated it after every warm destination – tried, true & tested! Also, I have a list of my 10 travel essentials I can’t live without, you can read those here !

As for specific things to pack for Europe, these are my top 3 must-have’s:

1. Travel Adapter

Yes, I know this is a very generic thing for a trip abroad, but this one is AMAZING. It is an all-in-one adapter that works on every country you will ever travel to. This is especially important with this itinerary because Switzerland doesn’t use the same plug as the rest of Europe! Click here for one that includes all of the USA, Europe, Australia and UK!

2. Curling Iron with dual voltage

True story… I was so confused about adapters and converters that I decided to just not buy a converter lol. When I turned on my blow dryer in this little hotel in Switzerland, I shut down the ENTIRE hotel because it burnt the circuits!! If you don’t want to worry about a confusing converter, I would just buy a dual voltage curling iron / blow dryer. This will come in handy on any trip you will ever do! Click here for a dual voltage curling iron.

3. Packing Cubes

Guys, this is so important when you are bouncing around between multiple hotels. Packing cubes saved my LIFE when I did my 10 day France trip because I stayed in three different hotels. Here’s a free tip: Pack the clothes you want to wear in each city (AKA hotel), so that way you only need to take out that cube at that hotel. Most hotels in Europe are super tiny, so saving you room will be a total life saver! PLUS, when you are done wearing those dirty clothes, you can stick them back in the packing cube so they don’t touch your clean clothes! Click here for packing cubes!

BONUS: Anytime I travel to abroad, I always get travel insuranc e so I am covered during my trip. Europe is known for reckless driving and lots of protests, so you want to make sure you have insurance in case of an emergency. Confused on what travel insurance is? I have a lengthy guide that will explain it in great detail !

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: overnight flight.

Day 2: Munich Sight Seeing

Day 3: Neuschwanstein Castle

Day 4: Drive to Venice + Lunch in Austria
Day 5: Explore Venice
Day 6: Drive to Swizerland + lunch in Verona
Day 7: Explore Switzerland + Mt. Pilatus

Day 8: Drive to Frankfurt

Day 9: Explore Frankfurt
Day 10: Fly home! 🙁

10 Day Europe Itinerary

Hopefully your flight won’t be as long as mine, but usually the entire first day is wasted traveling due to the time change + flight length.

Not being able to sleep on planes makes it feel extra long too. Is anyone else as dorky as me and get too excited to sleep before a vacation?

TIP: Bring Melatonin on your flight to help you sleep! It’s an all-natural vitamin that doesn’t make you feel groggy when you wake up. This also will help you sleep the first few nights you arrive.

Day 2: Arrive in Munich

We arrived at 7am in the morning.. yes. 7am. It was a rough first day because the time zone difference from Las Vegas was a whopping NINE HOURS . The entire day will be spent keeping yourself as busy as possible to fight that jet lag!

Spend your free day in Munich seeing street performers, watching surfing competitions at The Eisbachwelle , strolling through the cities English Garden, and enjoy lunch and German beer at the Hofbrauhaus !

As you can imagine, the Hofbrauhaus is extremely touristy and always busy! It is a HUGE restaurant, but you still might need to wait to be seated. If you do, just spend some time exploring the nearby shops to start your souvenir shopping early 🙂

End your first day in Germany with a Biergarten dinner at Zum Flaucher . There are SO many beirgartens in Germany that have outdoor seating, twinkly lights, picnic style seating and a relaxed atmosphere. Going to these for dinner was one of my favorite memories in Germany, so I would definitely make it a priority to go to one of them!

By far my favorite day out of the entire trip! This castle is unbelievably breathtaking. The Neuschwanstein ( say that ten times fast ) Castle is located less than 2 hours from Munich in a town called Hohenschwangau ( now say that 20 times fast ). You can either drive if you have a rental car, or there is a train that will take you from Munich to the castle in 2.5 hours. Click here to look at train times and prices! Or if navigating the trains terrifies you, you can sign up for a day trip with a tour company, click here for tour options .

Everything about Hohenschwangau just screams Disneyland. The adorable German Cottages (that people actually live in, oh my gosh!), glistening blue lake, horse and carriage rides, and a real life sleeping beauty castle nestled up on the mountain. Look at the view of the town from above:

Seriously though, this castle is the real life inspiration of the Disney movie, Sleeping Beauty. When you either walk or take your horse carriage ride to the top, you can take a tour of the castle and walk along the bridge to the castle viewpoint. From the viewpoint you are hanging on a bridge over a river that looks right at the castle and valley behind it. I have no words to explain how beautiful this place was.

Like this photo? Edit like me using my one-click Lightroom Presets !

After your castle tour , rent a paddle boat and enjoy the rest of the day on the lake! You can rent these for fairly inexpensive on the lake, no reservation needed. If you’re going with your significant other, grab picnic items from a local store and have lunch on your private boat. Or if you don’t have a significant other, a bff date will do just fine!

If you are planning a day trip from Munich like my tour did and more info, be sure to check out my friends guide on How to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich!

If you’re not too jet-lagged, end your night going out to German clubs – which if your from Las Vegas like me, will find hilarious! They’re all like little disco bars where everyone is dancing the night away to old American music. Here are the tops clubs in Munich:

Harry Klein

I wish I could have spent more days in Germany because I was blown away by how beautiful it was! I loved the culture, food, greenery, and the amount of hidden gems! If you want to extend your Germany stay, I would recommend checking out this guide: Things to do in Cologne Germany!

Day 4: Drive to Venice

There’s no sugar-coating that the drive from Munich to Venice is long and brutal. But, the scenery is out of this world and will make the 6 hour drive go by a lot faster! If you are not driving, there are direct trains that will take you from Munich to Venice at around 7 hours. Click here to search for train times!

If you are driving to Venice, that perfect pit-stop is Salzburg, Austria. You can see this colorful town filled with cobblestone streets, that is located along a river in the middle of the Austrian Alps! There are endless restaurants to choose from, so I would recommend walking around until you find somewhere that looks welcoming 🙂

We stayed in a small beach town outside of the actual island of Venice. I would highly recommend this because you get away from the touristy side of Venice to experience local restaurants and beaches. Doing this will make you feel like you are staying in an authentic Italian town with few tourists!

End your night indulging in pasta and pizza from the smallest hole in the wall you can find! And don’t forget about Italian gelato on the beach for dessert, because you’re in Italy! You’ve GOT TO have gelato everyday!

Day 5: Venice

The city that’s on everyone’s bucket list, Venice! I’ve dreamed about riding a gondola down the grand canal since, well, forever. Once you take the brief ferry ride to Venice island, you’ll take a tour of Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Murano Glass Museum before getting lost in the winding streets and canals of the city.

If you want to see more during your time in Venice, here are some recommendations:

Sign up for a food tour
See the colorful streets of Burano
Take a private gondola ride through the smaller canals
Have lunch on the Grand Canal at De Pesis!
Take a day trip to Prosecco Hills for wine tasting

I spent the day just wandering the streets of Venice with no plan and it was amazing! I carelessly roamed the streets, ate WAY too much food, took a gondola ride (or two), got gelato from every shop I saw, & got too many souvenirs!

TIP: Dress appropriately for the churches or else you’ll be forced to buy paper ponchos and skirts to wear inside. You need to cover your shoulders and wear and appropriate length bottom to enter.

Day 6: Drive to Switzerland

Another long drive, but it doesn’t count as a drive when you are winding through the Swiss Alps. The drive from Venice to Lucerne is a little over 5 hours and the train is roughly 6.5 hours.

The good thing about driving is there are so many towns you can stop in to break up the drive and see more sights! I would recommend stopping in either Verona or Milan (or both!) before heading to Switzerland.

Verona is a small, quaint town that is home to Romeo & Juliette’s famous balcony! While you are there, stop at a farmers market or grab some street food to enjoy under their balcony.

Romeo and Juliette's Balcony in Verona, Italy

From Verona to Lucerne, it will be about 4 1/2 hours of pure beauty! You will wind up the mountains passing through tunnels carved into mountains. After every tunnel pass, the scenery will be completely different and even more beautiful.

Check into your hotel and head into town for some dinner. We spent an actual hour hunting down fondue for dinner, apparently fondue isn’t a thing in the summer!? People were making fun of us but who cares! WERE TOURISTS AND WERE PROUD! We eventually found a fondue spot and it was amazing to say the least.

Day 7: Switzerland

Today you’ll be getting a little bit of everything. From adventure to beautiful scenery! Take the ferry over lake Lucerne to the gondola entrance for Mt. Pilatus . You’ll take the gondola up 7,000 ft (2132 meters) to get expansive views of the Swiss alps and Lake Lucerne.

I know the weather is unpredictable, but really try to do this on a clear day so you can get unobstructed views from the top! Once you are up there, there will be walking and hiking trails, a souvenir shop and food stands for you to grab a bight to eat.

On the way down comes the fun part… the steepest railroad in the world has a seat with your name on it. I promise it doesn’t go too fast and doesn’t feel too old. You can also take the gondola down if the train terrifies you, but traveling is all about pushing you out of your comfort zone 🙂

TIP: Don’t wear sandals to Mt. Pilatus because at the halfway point, there’s a type of “adventure park” with an alpine slide down the mountain, zip line and rope park. They are very strict at the zip line/rope park and will not let you on if you don’t have closed toe shoes!

Spend the afternoon hunting down some Swiss Chocolate for your loved ones back home, which is also very hard to find. I learned that everything I thought was stereotypical to Switzerland was just that, a stereotype.

Another day of driving and today’s pit stop will be the charming German village, Heidelberg. Are you all castled-out yet? Of course not! You’ll get to visit another older castle that is home to the world’s largest wine barrel!

The drive & train from Lucerne to Frankfurt is around 4 hours, but if you make a pit stop in Heidelberg for lunch, you will drive 3 hours and then 1 hour!

Once you arrive in Frankfurt you’ll soon see that it is a BIG city with lots of nightlife! Spend your night going out the local bars and enjoy one of your last nights in Europe.

Day 9: Frankfurt

We had a free day before our farewell dinner home, so some fun things to do in Frankfurt would be the Museumsufer (a cluster of 12 museums), Frankfurt Cathedral , Romerburg (a square with medieval homes), Palmengarten , and getting some last minute souvenirs!

Day 10: Fly Home

I can never sleep on planes mostly because I’m always too excited for the destination. I slept the entire 12 hour flight home, so that’s saying something about how “excited” I was to be going home!

Until next time Europe!

Before you go…. Want some more guides on Europe? I think you will love these!

10 Day France Itinerary
Champagne Tasting in Champagne, France
Ultimate Guide to the Louvre Museum
Ultimate Guide to the Gorges du Verdon
6 Day Iceland Road Trip

Thanks so much for stopping by 🙂

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How much will be the total cost for Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Austria 10 days tour? Will you assist for the visa processing as well? Thanks

This is not a paid tour, a free itinerary to use for your own travel planning! 🙂

You are amazing. I’d love to stomp around Europe with you checking out cute hotels and trying the best food and wines.

Useful Info for Your Switzerland Road Trip

How to get to zurich .

This road trip starts and concludes in Zurich. The international airport, Flughafen Zürich (ZRH), is located 10 km (6.2 miles) north of the city center. You can fly direct to Zurich Airport from the vast majority of European and North American destinations.

Once at the airport, you can head into the city center by public transport as you will not need to collect your rental until the second day of your Switzerland road trip. Either hop on the S-Bahn train or take the tram (line 10) into the city.

Expect to pay 6.80 CHF (€7) or travel for free if you pick up a Zürich Card . This costs 27 CHF (€28) for a 24-hour pass which is sufficient for your one full day in Zurich .

This card covers your public transport via tram, bus, train, boat, and cableway in central Zurich and the surrounding area. It also grants free or reduced admission to a number of museums so if you’re planning to visit many museums, it’s handy to have!

If you are connecting to Zurich by train, then Zurich Main Station is located right in the heart of District 1 near the Old Town.

Best time to visit Switzerland

Switzerland is one of those places that you can visit at any time of year. However, for the purpose of this 2 week Switzerland road trip itinerary I recommend that you avoid the middle of winter and the peak of summer.

These are the busiest times as you will compete with summer tourists and the ski season, which means higher costs for accommodation and more crowds. It also means more challenging driving conditions and some road closures due to snowfall.

Spring, early summer, and autumn are the best time to arrange your road trip to Switzerland. During these seasons, the elevated mountain roads are open and the hikes that I’ve included in my itinerary are all readily accessible. The weather conditions are also comfortable with warm days and cooler evenings.

Tips for driving in Switzerland

Swiss roads are well maintained and are a joy to drive but you will need to be a confident driver to handle the narrow, twisty mountain roads.

As with all European countries, you must drive on the right and follow the general road rules and regulations. Wearing a seatbelt at all times is a given and you must never drink before getting behind the wheel.

Let me share some specific driving tips for your road trip to Switzerland:

Before you drive or rent a car in Switzerland, you must possess a full driving license from your home country and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). If your driving license was issued by one of the member states of the European Economic Area, you will not need the IDP as your license is valid in Switzerland.
In general, the speed limits in Switzerland are 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways, 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways, 80 km/h (50 mph) on other roads outside built-up areas, and 50 km/h (30 mph) in towns. Cars with a trailer may not exceed 100 km/h (62 mph) on any road. Traffic fines are really heavy in Switzerland and roads are policed so keep an eye on your speed at all times!
You must display a motorway vignette on your vehicle. Discuss whether your car rental agency provides this automatically but if you have to buy it yourself, it will cost you 40 CHF (€42.30). The vignette will be valid for one whole calendar year – unfortunately you don’t have the option to buy a vignette for a shorter amount of time.
Some of the Swiss mountain passes are subject to closure during winter due to snowfall, I have indicated these in the itinerary. If you do plan this road trip during winter you will need to travel with winter tires and snow chains.
Driving with your headlights on is mandatory during daylight hours as well as when driving at night in Switzerland.
Always stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings. Even if they are only approaching, it is etiquette in Switzerland to stop and let them pass.
In case you lose phone reception, you can download offline maps on Google Maps or use the app Maps.me to ensure you don’t get lost.
This 2 week Switzerland road trip itinerary features a lot of hiking and you will be driving at high altitudes in mountain passes. It’s really important to bring layers, waterproofs, hiking boots, and sufficient water and snacks. You’ll want a great playlist too!

Overview of Your Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

This road trip to Switzerland starts and ends in Zurich and includes a couple of days in neighboring Liechtenstein. The itinerary is split between visiting the most interesting Swiss cities and towns and some of the most impressive scenery in the country.

Below is a breakdown of where you will spend your days and nights.

Breakdown of your 2 weeks in Switzerland

Day 1: Full day in Zurich (overnight in Zurich)
Day 2: Lucerne, Lake Brienz, arriving in Interlaken (overnight in Interlaken)
Day 3: Lauterbrunnen, Trümmelbachfälle, Harder Kulm (overnight in Interlaken)
Day 4: Grindelwald, Blausee, Spiez Castle (overnight in Interlaken)
Day 5: Giant Swing in Adelboden-Tschentenalp, Engstligen Falls, Thun Castle, arriving in Bern (overnight in Bern)
Day 6: Full day in Bern (overnight in Bern)
Day 7: Full day in Geneva (overnight in Geneva)
Day 8: Lausanne, Chillon Castle, arriving in Zermatt (overnight in Zermatt)
Day 9: Zermatt Five Lakes Hike, afternoon in Zermatt (overnight in Zermatt)
Day 10: Grimselpass, Furkapass & Hotel Belvedere, Swing the World Nara, arriving in Lugano (overnight in Lugano)
Day 11: Valle Verzasca, Foroglio (Waterfall, Swing the World), afternoon in Lugano (overnight in Lugano)
Day 12: Liechtenstein (overnight in Liechtenstein or Appenzell District, Switzerland)
Day 13: Ebenalp (overnight in Liechtenstein or Appenzell District, Switzerland)
Day 14: Saxer Lücke hike, Stadtbibliothek St. Gallen, arriving in Zurich (overnight in Zurich)

Map for your Switzerland road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Switzerland road trip itinerary. I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1: Zurich

You will start your road trip in Switzerland in the largest city, Zurich. You will not need a car today so you can make arrangements to collect it on the second day of your vacation.

Cradled by the Swiss Alps and resting on the shores of Lake Zurich, the city is made all the more scenic by the River Limmat which flows right through the Aldstadt (Old Town). The Aldstadt is brimming with museums and historic buildings while the city also boasts a number of scenic vantage points and gorgeous gardens.

One day is the perfect amount of time to explore Zurich however you could always extend your 2 weeks in Switzerland with a few extra nights tapped onto the start or end of the road trip.

Where to stay in Zurich

As you are only spending 24 hours in Zurich, I recommend that you stay centrally in District 1. However, if you are traveling on a budget, then Districts 4 and 8 are within easy access of the center and have some more affordable options. The great news is that you will not need to worry about parking!

Below you can find my picks for where to stay in Zurich for one night.

LUXURY – Storchen Zürich

This beautiful hotel is located right in the heart of Zurich and has its own boat pier directly at the Limmat River. Rooms come with classic furnishing with warm colors and modern facilities and each room offers a picturesque view of the Old Town. The hotel also has a beautiful outdoor terrace which is perfect for summertime trips.

MID-RANGE – Hotel City Zürich Design & Lifestyle

Situated by the famous Bahnhofstrasse, this modern hotel is artistically presented with comfortable and spacious rooms. All rooms have a private bathroom and most include bathtubs with overhead showers.

BUDGET – Hotel Marta

This no-frills hotel is clean, functional, and fabulously located in the northern point of the Niederdorf quarter of Old Town. Breakfast is included in the rate and the staff goes out of their way to take care of their guests.

Best things to do in Zurich

Zurich aldstadt .

Zurich’s Old Town straddles both sides of the River Limmat and it’s a joy to roam these historic streets. Take a few hours to stroll along Limmatquai, admire the numerous churches, and dip into an institution such as the Swiss National Museum.

My one day in Zurich itinerary will help you navigate the best things to do in Zurich Altstadt.

Polyterrasse

Swipe your Zürich Card and board the Polybahn, a little red funicular railway that ascends to a fabulous viewpoint at the Polyterrasse. Situated on a level with the ETH Zürich University, this is a laid-back spot to soak up city views with a great atmosphere.

Lake Zurich or River Limmat Cruise

Hop aboard a boat at Zürich Bürkliplatz and enjoy a 1.5-2 hour scenic cruise across Lake Zurich. Alternatively, you can choose a tour of the River Limmat which starts from Zürich Landesmuseum.

Note that these activities are only available during the summer season, from April until late October.

Get a taste of what’s to come later in your 2 week Switzerland road trip at this mountainous viewpoint high above Zurich. The S 10 train connects Zurich Main Station and Uetliberg in 25 minutes and this is the perfect spot for early morning or sunset.

If you are spending longer in Zurich then you might want to check out the hiking trails up here.

Panoramic view of Zurich from Uetliberg Viewpoint

Museum Rietberg

This museum houses traditional and contemporary pieces of art and archaeological finds from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. There are a number of galleries in Zurich but this one is particularly unusual and is located in a fantastic setting.

Visit a park

Zurich is abundant in parks and green open spaces. Take a wander around Rieterpark, which is the setting for Museum Rietberg, or explore the neighboring Belvoir Park for lake views. Other options include the lakeside Arboretum Zurich and the Old Botanic Garden in Aldstadt.

Thermalbad & Spa Zürich

Dive into these sulphuric waters at this thermal spa located in a former brewery. The view from the rooftop pool is spectacular and you can also splash out on a massage if you wish. As this Switzerland road trip concludes in Zurich, you could save this activity for the end of your adventure as well.

Where to eat in Zürich

Raclette Factory : You can’t come to Switzerland without sampling their staple delicacy of molten cheese drizzled over buttery potatoes and pickles! The Raclette Factory is the best place to try this après-ski treat in Zurich.
Restaurant Differente : Situated in the Hotel Krone, this stylish dining room serves Mediterranean dishes and Swiss specialties made using seasonal produce. They’re known for their exquisite tartare but the vegetarian dishes are also exceptional.
Heugümper : This upscale restaurant fuses the flavors of Asia and the Mediterranean to create a unique culinary experience.

Day 2: Zurich to Interlaken via Lake Brienz

Today you will pick up your rental and officially press go on your 2 week Switzerland road trip itinerary. As you drive from Zurich to Interlaken, you will cover a distance of 123 km (76.5 miles).

This accounts for around 2 hours of driving time, factoring in the following scenic stops but excluding time spent viewing the attractions.

Driving time: 40 minutes (53 km/33 miles) from Zurich to Lucerne

Around one hour south of Zurich, Lucerne is a small city that sits on the shore of Lake Lucerne. Noted for its medieval architecture, it’s worth parking up in town and exploring the Aldstadt on foot.

Walking across the Chapel Bridge ( Kapellbrücke) is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Lucerne . Built in the 14th century, the bridge offers scenic views over the River Reuss and Lake Lucerne, and you can also admire the interior artwork on the roof.

The Sammlung Rosengart contains a selection of artworks by Picasso while the Zytturm is an antique clocktower set among the old city wall where you can stretch your legs.

If you’re feeling hungry, you could grab a bite to eat at the plant-based cafe PURA or savor the views from the waterfront Café Bar Volière.

Lake Brienz

Driving time: 1 hour (60 km/38 miles) from Lucerne to Iseltwald

After taking in the views in Lucerne, get back in your car for another hour of driving down to the surrounds of Lake Brienz. Find a parking spot in the village of Iseltwald where you can get an eyeful of turquoise water.

Follow the path along the water’s edge and you will reach the dreamy Schloss Seeburg, a fairytale castle that gazes out across the lake. It is no longer possible to enter the castle but you can still take photos from outside.

My tip for lunch today is the Hotel Chalet du Lac . This chalet-style property affords a magical view across the lake towards the town, castle, and surrounding mountains. The menu is rich with fish dishes, Swiss fare, and European plates.

Boats and wooden houses at Lake Brienz, Switzerland

Arriving in Interlaken

Driving time: 10 minutes (10 km/6 miles) from Iseltwald to Interlaken

Interlaken, the final destination of day two of your Switzerland road trip, is located a 10-minute drive from Iseltwald so you can head there whenever you like and check into your hotel. This lakeside resort town sits astride the River Aare in between Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

Where to stay in Interlaken (3 nights)

Once in Interlaken, you will need to book accommodation in the town for three nights as this will be your base for the next couple of days. These are my recommendations for where to stay in Interlaken.

LUXURY – Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

The Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa enjoys a privileged and picturesque location in Interlaken, between 2 beautiful lakes at the foot of the eternally snow-capped Jungfrau. All rooms have a distinctive design and décor, ranging from classic to contemporary. Elegant interiors and spacious marble bathrooms complement the designs.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Du Nord

Offering panoramic mountain views, the traditional and historic Hotel Du Nord, dating from 1847, is located in the center of Interlaken. The rooms are all non-smoking and equipped with tea-making facilities. Some rooms have a balcony or a terrace.

BUDGET – Hotel Rössli

This cozy hotel is located in the heart of town and parking is available at a surcharge. Some rooms include an ensuite bathroom with a tub while others come with a private balcony. Breakfast is included in the rate and the staff here are exemplary.

Day 3: Scenic Drive around Interlaken

Today you will visit some nearby towns and attractions before heading back to Interlaken for the night. You will drive a total of 30 km (18.5 miles), equal to around 40-45 minutes.

Lauterbrunnen

Driving time: 18 minutes (13 km/8 miles) from Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a village set among the eponymous municipality. It’s mostly known for its scenic views and fairytale setting and let me tell you something in advance: no pictures do justice to how beautiful this place is in real life!

Most people just take a quick walk around the town but if you have more time, there is no shortage of things to do in the area. There is a huge parking lot (Parkhaus Lauterbrunnen) right next to the train station where you can leave your car while you explore the town.

To find the most famous viewpoint, head over to Chalet Pironnet where you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking panoramic view of the town.

If you want to spend longer in the area, you can take advantage of the local cable cars and soar high into the Bernese Alps to savor the views from the peaks. Lauterbrunnen to Grütschalp is the most convenient as it’s located right in the town.

Alternatively, you can drive the 50 minutes to Wengen which connects to Mannlichen by gondola. A number of short hikes start from Mannlichen, including the Panoramaweg walk to Kleine Scheidegg which is an easy 4.5 km (2.8 miles) hike each way.

Girl in a white dress twirling in the fairytale town of Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland

Trümmelbachfälle

Driving time: 6 minutes (4 km/2.5 miles) from Lauterbrunnen to Trümmelbachfälle

A short drive from Lauterbrunnen, Trümmelbachfälle (Trümmelbach Falls) is a stream of ten glacial waterfalls that gush down the ravine from the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.

There is a parking lot right at the entrance where you can leave your car but if you’re up for a walk, you can also walk to Trümmelbachfälle from Lauterbrunnen since the route is only 4 km (2.5 miles) in one way.

Entrance to Trümmelbachfälle costs 14 CHF (€14.40) per person. Right after the entrance, you can take a tunnel lift to the top of the waterfalls where you can access a series of walkways and tunnels that connect the falls. Basically, you can walk from the top to the bottom and explore the scenery during your descent.

The weather is quite cold inside the tunnels and the walkways get slippery due to the powerful waterfalls so make sure to wear proper shoes and have a warm jacket with you.

Access is possible from early April until November each year but it’s best to check the Trümmelbachfälle website beforehand to ensure that they are open.

Harder Kulm

Driving time: 20 minutes (15 km/9 miles) from Trümmelbachfälle back to Interlaken

Once back in Interlaken, you can drop your car back at your hotel and ride the Harderbahn funicular up to the Harder Kulm viewpoint for staggering views across the surroundings.

The journey takes around 10 minutes and it costs 20 CHF (€20.60) in one way. It’s important to note that the funicular only operates between April and November and it can be closed due to bad weather.

From the top, there are a number of short hiking trails that range from 20 minutes to 1.5 hours so you might want to squeeze one into the end of the second day of your Switzerland road trip.

Panoramic view from Harder Kulm, Interlaken

Day 4: Grindelwald and Blausee

The fourth day of your Switzerland road trip will also be a day trip from Interlaken so there’s no need to check out of your hotel yet. Driving time today will be a total of 120 km (75 miles), equal to around 2 hours behind the wheel depending on traffic.

Grindelwald

Driving time: 25 minutes (20 km/12.5 miles) from Interlaken to Grindelwald

First Cliff Walk by Tissot

The first stop of the day is the village of Grindelwald, the gateway for the Jungfrau Region. Once there, you can park in town and then ride the gondola up to Grindelwald-First.

A return ticket costs 68 CHF per person (€70) from Grindelwald but if you don’t want to drive today, you can also take a cable car directly from Interlaken (it costs around 90 CHF/€92.70).

The gondola takes 25 minutes to reach your destination, First station, calling at Bort and Schreckfeld along the way. Right after you depart, you’ll find yourself at the start of the First Cliff Walk by Tissot.

It’s an elevated walkway that winds its way around the cliff and juts out 2,168 meters (7,112 feet) above the landscape to afford a heart-stopping view across the mountains and forestry. The path reaches out 45 meters (148 feet) into the void so you will need a head for heights!

The terrace itself isn’t that large so you need only plan to spend 20-30 minutes exploring and taking photos. Although you’ll need to pay for the gondola, the walkway itself is free to visit.

Hike to Bachalpsee

The next on the agenda for today is the hike to Lake Bachalpsee which conveniently starts at First. This alpine lake is nestled among the mountains at 2,265 meters (7,431 feet) above sea level.

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, swathes of greenery, and blooming wildflowers during summer, it’s a sight that will linger with you for days.

The hike is 3 km (1.9 miles) each way and a round trip there and back to First will take around two hours. The track is clearly marked and in excellent condition, so you will need decent footwear and layers but nothing too intense. Although on a slight incline, the hike isn’t challenging at all.

If you want to continue walking, you can hike from Lake Bachalpsee up to Faulhorn, which stands at 2,681 meters (8,796 feet) above sea level. This takes about 1.5 hours each way and is far steeper so I recommend this to intrepid hikers.

Alternatively, you can head straight back to First and either catch the gondola back down to Grindelwald or follow the trail back down to town on foot.

Driving time: 1 hour (56 km/35 miles) from Grindelwald to Blausee or 35 minutes (38 km/24 miles) from Interlaken to Blausee

If you start your Grindelwald adventure early enough (the first cable car starts at 8.30 am) and you don’t want to hike up to Faulhorn, you’ll still be able to visit Blausee on the afternoon of Day 4. Since you’ll have to drive back to Interlaken from Grindelwald first and then to Blausee, you can also move this stop to the morning of your next day if you’re feeling tired.

Blausee is the tiniest lake you will see during your Switzerland road trip but it’s absolutely worth the stop! It’s roughly a 35-minute drive from Interlaken and the entrance costs 11 CHF (€11.30) per person.

Fringed by woodland, you can walk around the lake in less than 15 minutes. Look out for the submerged statue on your wander!

Girl in a purple skirt sitting on a rock at Blausee, Switzerland

Spiez Castle

Driving time: 25 minutes (20 km/12.5 miles) from Blausee to Spiez Castle or 20 minutes (20 km/12.5 miles) from Interlaken to Spiez Castle

If you decide to visit Blausee after Grindelwald, you can make a quick stop at Spiez Castle on the way back to Interlaken. Of course, if you want to spend longer in Grindelwald, you can move Spiez Castle to the next day as well, such as you can do it with Blausee. Whatever feels best for you!

Surrounded by beautiful vineyards, Spiez Castle is definitely one of the most beautiful castles in Switzerland as it grants a breathtaking view over Lake Thun and the peaks of the Bernese Oberland.

If you love history, you’ll also appreciate the museum inside the castle that tells you more about the history of the castle and its previous owners. The castle is typically open from May to mid-October, a ticket costs 10 CHF (€10.30) per person.

Day 5: Interlaken to Bern

The fifth day of your Switzerland road trip covers 130 km (80 miles) worth of lush Swiss scenery as you drive to Bern and equates to around 2.5-3 hours of driving time.

Giant Swing in Adelboden-Tschentenalp

Driving time: 50 minutes (48 km/30 miles) from Interlaken to Adelboden

For the start of the fifth day of your Switzerland itinerary, head up high to the Tschentenalp mountains where you can find a super cool swing not far from the cable car station.

To access the swing, you will need to park in Adelboden and then ride the gondola from Tschentenbahn Station (Dorf) up to Tschentenalp, north of the town. An adult ticket costs 32 CHF (€33.20) for a return trip while a one-way ticket costs 22 CHF (€22.80).

It’s free to ride the swing which gives you the chance to fly high above the alpine pastures and take in an exciting view of the scenery from the air, which is incredible whatever season your trip falls in.

However, if your road trip to Switzerland falls during the peak summer season then brace yourself for a line to ride the swing.

Unfortunately, we were not able to visit this cool swing during our Switzerland road trip but if you have the chance, don’t miss it! Check out their website to see some pictures of the swing and the surrounding area.

Engstligen Falls

Driving time: 9 minutes (5 km/3.1 miles) from Adelboden to Unter dem Birg

After enjoying the giant swing, your next stop is visiting the two waterfalls south of Adelboden that form Engstligen Falls.

Simply known as Engstligen 1 and Engstligen 2, this twin falls tumble from a height of 97 meters (318 feet) and 165 meters (541 feet) respectively. You can get up really close and feel the spray from these powerful falls.

To access the waterfalls viewing area you can ride the gondola up to the Engstlingen cable car station from Bergbahnen (Unter dem Birg) and then walk 20 minutes to view the landmark.

A return ticket for the cable car costs 35 CHF (€36.30) per person while the one-way option costs 25 CHF (€25.90). Alternatively, you can hike up from Adelboden, which takes around 90 minutes up and 1 hour back down.

Thun Castle

Driving time: 55 minutes (45 km/28 miles) from Unter dem Birg to Thun Castle

Your last sight of the day before you reach Bern is this 12th-century castle which sits on a hill overlooking the town of Thun. With its turrets, medieval interiors, and 360° views of the surrounding alps, this castle is a mesmerizing place to wrap up your day.

You can purchase a ticket that permits entry to the Castle Museum or one that includes access to any special exhibitions taking place as well. It’s open daily throughout the year with the exception of November to January when it only opens on Sundays.

Arriving to Bern

Driving time: 30 minutes (30 km/19 miles) from Thun Castle to Bern

The only thing left to do for this day is to get back to your car and drive yourself to the Swiss capital, Bern. This will take you roughly half an hour and depending on how early or late you finish your day.

If you have some additional time, you can start exploring right away but don’t worry, you’ll have the full day tomorrow for sightseeing.

You’ll need to book 2 nights of accommodation in Bern, refer to the next day to find out my personal recommendations for the best places to stay in Bern.

Day 6: Bern

Despite being the capital city of Switzerland, Bern is actually pretty small. Therefore, spending one day in Bern is the perfect amount of time to explore the main sights and get a sense of the city.

Located within the canton of Bern, the city dates back to the 12th century and its Altstadt features a presentation of medieval architecture and literally hundreds of fountains. In fact, Bern is often nicknamed the City of Fountains!

The Altstadt sits in a crook on the River Aare, one of the longest rivers in the country. This tranquil city is not at all what you expect from a capital city and it’s a great place to grab some rest and relaxation as part of your 2 weeks in Switzerland.

Where to stay in Bern

Bern is so small and walkable that it doesn’t really matter where you choose to stay. If you stay further out then you can connect to downtown Bern via bus or tram and then explore on foot.

It’s rare to find free parking offered at central hotels so you will need to factor in this cost on top of your accommodation. These are my suggestions of where to stay in Bern.

LUXURY – Hotel Bellevue Palace Bern

This opulent 5-star hotel occupies an elegant Art Nouveau building that overlooks the Bernese Alps and lively river area. Besides the lavish rooms and suites, the property contains two bars, two restaurants, a sauna, and a gym. As with the other hotels listed, parking is available with a surcharge.

MID-RANGE – Boutique Hotel Belle Epoque

This elegant hotel is situated in the heart of Old Town and opens onto a pretty boulevard terrace where you can enjoy a meal or drink. Chic rooms and suites come with the option for a shower or bathtub and tasteful decor. Nearby parking is available for an additional fee.

BUDGET – Hotel Marthahaus

This budget-friendly hotel is centrally located down a residential street. You can save money by reserving a room that has a shared bathroom and look forward to a complimentary breakfast. Parking is available at an additional cost.

Best things to do in Bern

Bern aldstadt .

Take a wander around this UNESCO World Heritage Site and ogle medieval architecture, elegant fountains, the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, and the impressive clock tower, Zytglogge. If you want to understand the history of the city then you can book a Bern city tour with a Lokafyer (local guide).

Rosengarten

Leafy Bern is abundant in green spaces but Rosengarten might be the prettiest. Located on the right bank of the River Aare, the elevated garden provides a view of the Altstadt and is brimming with roses, irises, rhododendrons, lilies, and cherry trees. Spring and summer is the best time to catch the flowers in bloom.

The Parliament Building, or Federal Palace, houses the Swiss Federal Assembly and the Federal Council. It features a classic Neo-Renaissance facade and if you elect to take a tour then you can also explore the interiors. The 26 jets of water in front of the palace represent each of Switzerland’s cantons.

If your 2 weeks in Switzerland coincide with the warmer seasons then you can hop into the River Aare for a swim. Head to the swimming area south of Aldstadt and you will find sunbathing areas and bathing pools.

Gurten Funicular

Ride the Gurten Funicular (Gurtenbahn) to access the summit of this imposing mountain that looms to the south of the city. The peak is highly developed with places to eat and tons of viewpoints including the observation tower which grants a fantastic view over the city and surrounding valley.

Where to eat in Bern

Restaurant Cafe Postgasse : A small and ambient restaurant that specializes in mussels, located right in the heart of Altstadt.
Kornhauskeller Restaurant : Sited within a vaulted cellar, this opulent restaurant serves a mix of Bernese, Swiss, and Mediterranean plates.
Swing Kitchen : This sustainably conscious vegan restaurant excels in plant-based burgers served with their signature sweet potato fries.

Cheese Fondue at Le Mazot in Bern, Switzerland

Day 7: Geneva

Driving time: 2 hours (170 km/106 miles) from Bern to Geneva

French-speaking Geneva is the second largest city in Switzerland after Zurich. Famous for its financial industry, the city is also the European seat of the United Nations and the headquarters of the Red Cross.

Geneva is located on the southern tip of Lac Léman, or Lake Geneva, and is surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains. You can get tremendous views of Mont Blanc from the city.

Much of the lifestyle in Geneva revolves around the waterfront and the Vieille Ville (Old Town) which makes it easy to see the best of the city during one day in Geneva .

Where to stay in Geneva

As Geneva is a popular city for conventions, there are lots of no-frills hotels dotted around the airport and conference center area which have good deals. Public transport is efficient so as with Bern, you can leave your car at your hotel for the day and explore on foot.

The central city is full of chains and boutiques, these are my picks for where to stay in Geneva. You’ll have to book one night in this beautiful city because tomorrow you’ll leave for Zermatt!

LUXURY – N’vY Manotel

Wonderfully positioned in the bohemian neighborhood of Paquis, this hotel is within walking distance of all the attractions on this one day in Geneva itinerary and equally convenient for transit. Suites feature lakeview terraces and there is an excellent spread of restaurants and bars on-site to browse.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Bernina Geneva

Located opposite Geneva’s main railway station, this hotel is perfectly positioned for accessing the city via public transit and is within walking distance to all the major sights on this itinerary. Contemporary rooms are artistically styled and many feature lake views.

BUDGET – Hotel des Tourelles

Situated in the central St Gervais Quarter, this historic hotel is equipped with modern guest rooms furnished with free WiFi, en-suite bathrooms, and huge windows that flood the space with natural light. The best rooms offer lake views and come with balconies.

Best things to do in Geneva

Lac léman (lake geneva).

Hop aboard a cruise vessel from the Genève Mont-Blanc ferry terminal then sit back and enjoy a ride across the sensational lake. A boat tour on Lake Geneva gets you up close to Jet d’Eau, the 140 meters (459 feet) tall water fountain that is the very emblem of Geneva. During the summer season, you can opt to go stand up paddleboarding instead.

Vieille Ville (Old Town)

Geneva’s Old Town is a warren of historical buildings, churches, public squares, museums, boutiques, and restaurants. Vieille Ville winds its way up a fairly daunting hill but that means you get stunning lake views, especially once you make it to the longest benches in the world, the Banc de la Treille on the Treille Promenade.

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Located a short walk from the Palais des Nations, this museum gleans insight into the humanitarian efforts of the Red Cross. It’s a moving and emotional experience but such a great opportunity to connect with the work that the committee undertakes.

Palais des Nations

Squeeze a tour of the United Nations office complex into your Switzerland road trip. This includes a visit to the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber and teaches you so much about the intricacies of the intergovernmental organization. Outside you can catch the Alley of Flags fluttering the breeze and explore the grounds.

Bains des Pâquis

These public baths are located on a pier that stretches out over Lac Léman and are the perfect place to wrap up your day in Geneva with a dip. During winter you might prefer to head straight to the sauna or hammam. Massage treatments are also available.

Reformation Wall

Geneva was the ground of the Protestant Reformation and there are plenty of museums and historic sites in the city where you can learn about what happened. Located just on the outskirts of Aldstadt, the Reformation Wall is a great place to start your journey into Geneva’s past!

Buy Chocolate

Geneva is the birthplace of some of the best chocolate on the planet so take some time to peruse a couple of chocolatiers. You can pick up souvenirs and replenish your snacks for the rest of your 2 week Switzerland road trip itinerary.

Where to eat in Geneva

Cafe du Soleil : Sample the best fondue in Geneva alongside other Swiss delicacies at this casual cafe which isn’t too far from the Pâquis-Nations.
Corde Coffee : This colorful cafe is one of the best stops for a flavorsome brew and a delicious slice of freshly baked cake.
Street Gourmet (temporarily closed) : Perfect for a healthy lunch, this restaurant rustles up salads, sandwiches, and soups to suit all palates.
Living Room Bar & Kitchen : Swiss with a touch of Nordic, this is the restaurant of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and it’s one of the best options for a gourmet treat while in Geneva.

Day 8: Geneva to Zermatt

The total distance from Geneva to Zermatt via the attractions listed below is 240 km (149.1 miles) and the drive time is around 3 hours 15 minutes.

Driving time: 50 minutes (64 km/40 miles) from Geneva to Lausanne

Situated on the north shore of Lac Léman, Lausanne is an attractive lakeside city known for its medieval architecture and its connections to the Olympics. It’s the setting of the International Olympic Committee headquarters, the Olympic Museum, and the Olympic Park.

If you’re a fan of the games then you can take a journey through Olympic heritage at the museum which contains kits, torches, medals, and other memorabilia from the past tournaments.

The Olympic Park is studded with sculptures honoring the athletes and games and there’s a 100-meter track if you want to find out if you’re a contender for the next Olympics!

Besides the Olympics attractions, art fans may also want to visit Platform 10 where you can survey over 10,000 works of art from 19th and 20th century Swiss artists.

You can get a wonderful view of the city and lake from the Jardin Botanique de Lausanne and the Lausanne Cathedral is well worth a visit.

The walk along the Ouchy promenade is the perfect place to stretch your legs and soak up panoramas of Lac Léman from this perspective.

Chillon Castle

Driving time: 40 minutes (40 km/25 miles) from Lausanne to Chillon Castle

One of the most beautiful castles in Europe , this dreamy Swiss castle sits in a fairytale position on the eastern curve of Lac Léman. In the local ancient language, Chillon meant ‘rocky platform’ and this is an accurate depiction of the archaeological site.

With the site dating back to the Bronze Age, the history of the castle is divided into three eras: the Savoy Period (12-16th centuries), the Bernese Period (16-18th centuries), and the Vaudois Period (18th century until present day).

Chillon Castle is open daily, 10 am – 6 pm (last entry 5 pm). The opening time may be different depending on the month, therefore make sure you check their website before your visit for up-to-date information.

The tickets cost 13.50 CHF (€15). You can book a ticket online in advance or buy one at the castle itself. If you don’t want to go inside the castle it’s still worth stopping by to admire the views.

One of the best viewpoints of the castle is at Snack Café and another one is from the other side, around the Château de Chillon ferry port.

Girl in a white skirt in front of Chillon Castle, Switzerland

Arriving to Zermatt

Driving time: 1 hour and 45 minutes (135 km/84 miles) from Chillon Castle to Täsch

Being an entirely car free town, unfortunately it’s not possible to travel all the way to Zermatt with your car. But worry not, there is a solution! You can leave your car at a nearby town called Täsch from where you can take a train to Zermatt.

The train ride takes only 12 minutes and trains run in every 20 minutes from early morning till late night. A one-way ticket costs around 8 CHF (€8.20) and if you want to avoid paying a fortune for taxis, this is the only way to get to Zermatt.

Where to stay in Zermatt (2 nights)

Once in Zermatt, you can get around on foot and via the cable cars that service the town. Since it’s a small town, you can basically stay anywhere and you’ll still be in walking distance from all the main highlights of the town.

For Zermatt, you’ll need to book 2 nights of accommodation, below you can find my top picks for every budget.

LUXURY – The Omnia

Situated on a rock, 45 m above the roofs of central Zermatt, guests access The Omnia via a tunnel leading to an elevator, which brings them right into the lobby. Guests can taste refined international cuisine made from selected seasonal ingredients in the restaurant or on the terrace.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Ambassador Zermatt

The Hotel Ambassador Zermatt enjoys a central location, only 100 m from the Zermatt train station and the Gornergrat rack railway station. All rooms and apartments feature a balcony offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Matterhorn.

BUDGET – Hotel Adonis

Excellently located for walking into the center of town and scooting up the cableways, this hotel offers splendid mountain views. Most rooms come with a private balcony. At an additional fee, you can include breakfast in the rate.

Day 9: Zermatt

As I mentioned before, Zermatt is a car free town so good news is that you don’t need to use your car for today! You can just comfortably get around on foot and you can also take advantage of the cable cars to access the higher viewpoints/hikes.

Zermatt Five Lakes Hike

Rise early to tackle the majestic Five Lakes Hike (5-Seenweg). This is an easy walk that gives you the chance to ogle a series of beautiful alpine lakes and take in vistas of Matterhorn’s jagged peak rising in the distance of the Valais Alps.

The five lakes that you will visit are Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee.

This hike is 9.8 km (6.1 miles) and takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete, but you might want to factor in additional time for walking around the lakes and taking photos. It’s not too strenuous with lots of flat and downhill sections, with the occasional short but steep chunk.

The starting point is the Blauherd cable car station which is accessible via the funicular from Zermatt town and then the cable car from Sunnegga. A return ticket typically costs between 53-58.5 CHF (€55-60.70) depending on the season you visit.

The trail concludes at Sunnegga station and is clearly marked for the duration of the hike, you just need to follow the signs marked 5-Seenweg.

Panoramic view during the Zermatt 5 Lakes Hike

Afternoon in Zermatt

After the hike, you can ride the cable car back down to Zermatt and spend the afternoon exploring the town.

If you want to soak up more mountain views then you can ride the Gornergrat Bahn funicular up to the Gornergrat viewpoint. This is the highest open-air cog railway in Europe and its route includes a vertical climb of 1,469 meters (4,820 feet) as the train jostles through alpine ravines and larch forest.

The ride takes 30 minutes each way and it’s located at the main Zermatt train station. Although the view is indeed beautiful, brace yourself for the steep price: a return ticket costs 134.50 CHF (€139.60) per person.

Besides the funicular, you can enjoy a wander through the streets of Zermatt to see the traditional Walser houses. Stroll down Hinterdorfstrasse past the archaic wooden chalets.

If you want to learn more about the regional history and tales of the mountaineers who have mastered the ascent up the Matterhorn, you can visit the Matterhorn Museum, Zermatlantis.

The main lure of Zermatt is that the town offers wonderful views of the iconic pyramid-shaped peak. After the hike you might feel satiated with what you’ve seen, but, if not, you can walk up to the official viewpoint from the town.

Day 10: Zermatt to Lugano via Grimselpass & Furkapass

This morning you will need to reunite yourself with your car and drive the 300 km (186 miles) to Lugano via the attractions below.

The total driving time today is around 5.5 hours, excluding time spent at the attractions, so you will need to depart from Zermatt and Täsch as early as possible.

Grimselpass

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (90 km/56 miles) from Täsch to Grimselpass

You will follow the Grimselpass, one of the most scenic roads that you’ll encounter during this 2 week Switzerland road trip itinerary. The elevated route sits at 2,164 meters (7,100 feet) above sea level and is one of the highest altitude paved roads in Europe.

Connecting the cantons of Bern and Valais, it is a showcase of wilderness that includes granite rocks, lakes, and power plants.

The full pass is 38 km (24 miles) and it is usually only accessible during late spring until October. You can park up by Totensee to break up the journey and appreciate the scenery before turning around and heading back towards Furkapass.

Drive through the whole Grimselpass means you’ll need to take a bit of a detour so feel free to pass on it if you’d rather save some time.

Furkapass & Hotel Belvedere

Driving time: 17 minutes (14 km/9 miles) from Grimselpass to Hotel Belvedere

Furkapass is another high-altitude mountain pass, this one registering at an elevation of 2,429 meters (7,969 feet). It connects the Valais hamlet of Gletsch with Realp, in the canton of Uri. As you drive along the road you might find the scenery familiar. That’s because it was used as a filming location in the James Bond movie, Goldfinger .

Park your car at Hotel Belvédère which sits on the western end of the pass and you can walk up to the Rhone glacier.

Girl in a red skirt in front of Belvedere Furka, Switzerland

Swing the World Nara

Driving time: 2 hours (106 km/66 miles) from Hotel Belvedere to Swing the World Nara

If you loved the Giant Swing in Tschentenalp then you’ll be pleased to know that you can visit two more amazing swings today!

These pair of swings that have been positioned in the Nara ski region are part of a project from Swing the World who installed swings in 11 different locations through the Ticino area. (Hint: You’ll be able to visit another location the next day!)

It was a bit of a struggle to find these swings first because I couldn’t find any proper information about them online but don’t worry, now you have me! First of all, you need to drive up to Cancori on a very narrow mountain road.

The road is so narrow that it can barely fit one car and it’s a two-way road! So I would only recommend driving up if you’re an experienced driver and you don’t have a fear of heights.

Once you made it to Cancori, find the small church (Kleine Kapelle) where you can park your car. From here, you only need to walk 5 minutes to the first swing and 10 minutes to the second swing. You just have to look out for signs that says “Altalena” and you’ll definitely find them.

This is your moment to seize the day and get that perfect shot for Instagram so have your camera ready! A portrait of you soaring above the Swiss Alps is the perfect souvenir from your 2 weeks in Switzerland.

Arriving to Lugano

Driving time: 1 hour and 20 minutes (78 km/48 miles) from Swing the World Nara to Lugano

Once you had your moment on the swings, it’s time to head back to your car and drive to Lugano where you’ll be spending the next two nights.

It takes roughly around 1.5 hours to reach Lugano from Cancori and unfortunately you’ll have to take the same mountain road you drove up on. Try to leave the swings before it gets dark as it’s really challenging to drive down during the night!

Where to stay in Lugano (2 nights)

Lugano is an interesting mix of Swiss and Mediterranean influences so if you want to explore the culture and food then you might prefer to stay in the town center. Alternatively, there are lots of appealing hotels dotted along the lakeside further out of town.

Below you can find my recommendations for the best places to stay in Lugano.

LUXURY – Hotel Splendide Royal

Established in 1887, the 5-star Splendide Royal with its turn-of-the-century character is Lugano’s most fashionable hotel, located on Lugano’s lakeside main street. With its elegant guest rooms, fine cuisine, and a staff of 100 employees who provide meticulous personal service, the Splendide Royal hotel inspires loyalty among its clients.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Colibrì

Located slightly further out of town, this property provides a stunning view of the lake that makes it worth the ride. The hotel features a swimming pool, free parking, and the rate includes breakfast. Top-tier rooms feature a balcony and lake view.

BUDGET – Hotel Atlantico

This wallet-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms, free parking, and free daily breakfast. The location is perfect for getting around the historic center and the staff is noted for their attention to detail.

Day 11: Scenic drive in and around Lugano

Today you will explore the region to the northwest of Lugano and drive for a total of around 180 km (111.8 miles). The total drive time will be around 3.5-4 hours, subject to how deep into the Valle Verzasca you venture.

Valle Verzasca

Driving time: 1 hour (52 km/32 miles) from Lugano to Ponte dei Salti (Valle Verzasca)

Valle Verzasca is a picturesque valley located in Lavertezzo, within the canton of Ticino in Italian-speaking Switzerland. There are loads of activities to choose from here so it’s up to you to decide how you want to absorb the surroundings.

You can hike, mountain bike, swim, or discover the culture of the rural hamlets and villages. One spot not to miss is the Ponte dei Salti, which means ‘jump bridge.’ This double-arched bridge crosses the emerald-colored Verzasca River from Lavertezzo village.

It is also possible to do a bungee jump from the Verzasca Dam if you can summon the courage! If you want to hike the Lavertezzo and the Revöira ethnographic path, then you will need to allow 3 hours to complete the 8.7 km (5.4 miles).

Driving time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (52 km/32 miles) from Ponte dei Salti (Valle Verzasca) to Foroglio

Driving further north into the Ticino canton, you will reach the fairytale Maggia Valley where the star attraction is the picturesque hamlet of Foroglio. The stone buildings are right out of a children’s picture book and are set against the thundering Cascata di Foroglio which crashes down from the cliffs behind the village.

These waterfalls are accessible via a 2 km (1.2 miles) hike from the village which is clearly signposted. Alternatively, you can take the 8 km (5 miles) route which takes you up into the valley at the top of the falls.

There is another Swing the World located in Foroglio, positioned in the woodland with a full frontal view of the waterfalls. Swing out over the river if you dare!

Afternoon in Lugano

Driving time: 1 hour and 25 minutes (78 km/48 miles) from Foroglio back to Lugano

Depending on how long you want to spend in Valle Verzasca and Foroglio, you can head back to Lugano whenever you are ready and spend the rest of the day roaming the city.

Architecture aficionados will love checking out the blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical buildings in the town, particularly the churches, cathedrals, and monasteries.

You could visit an art gallery such as the Museo d’arte della Svizzera Italiana. Whatever you do, don’t forget to take a scenic stroll along the shore of the Lago di Lugano or through the Parco Ciani. Or of course, you can hop on a boat cruise to see the city from an entirely different perspective.

Other things to do in Lugano include riding the funicular up to Monte San Salvatore from Paradiso where you will be rewarded with gorgeous views from the 900 meters (2,952 feet) summit. If you have the energy, you can walk down the mountain in 1-1.5 hours.

Afterwards, you could head to Swissminiatur for a more gentle activity. This open-air museum opened in 1959 and features Swiss landmarks in, you guessed it, miniature!

My other tip for this area is to head north along the lake to the quarter of Gandria. This suburb is a time capsule for previous eras, with immaculately preserved buildings that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

It’s also the final Swiss village before you meet the Italian border. You can either drive here from Lugano or take a boat cruise to experience it from the water.

Lakeside promenade at Lugano, Switzerland

Day 12: Lugano to Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein.

Driving time: 2.5 hours (185 km/115 miles) from Lugano to Vaduz, Liechtenstein (via Liechtenstein)

Today you will actually cross the Swiss border into neighboring Liechtenstein. The distance from Lugano to the capital city, Vaduz, is 185 km (115 miles) and the journey will take you around 2.5 hours.

I recommend crossing the border at Balzers so you can drive through the whole country. It will give you a nice first impression even if you don’t have time to stop and explore every town.

Once you are in Liechtenstein, I suggest that you concentrate your sightseeing on the area surrounding Vaduz. You can drive up to Schloss Vaduz for panoramic views across the city. Sadly the castle is closed to visitors because it’s the actual residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein, moreover it is currently being renovated.

Further sights in Vaduz include riding the Citytrain which is a fun way to see and learn about the city and visiting museums such as the Liechtenstein National Museum or Postmuseum. Whatever you do, remember to get your passport stamped at the Tourist Office. It’s a great memento from your 2 weeks in Switzerland!

Further afield, you can visit the little alpine towns of Planken and Triesenberg which are only a short drive from Vaduz. For something more adventurous, you can drive up to Malbun which features the only ski resort in the country. During the summer months, the region is transformed into a playground for hiking and mountain biking.

For more help structuring your activities, you can refer to my guide on how to spend one day in Liechtenstein .

Where to stay in Liechtenstein or the Appenzell District (2 nights)

This 25 km (15.5 miles) long principality sandwiched between Switzerland, Austria, and Germany is small enough that you can really stay anywhere you like.

However, for the purpose of this road trip in Switzerland, my recommendation is that you choose accommodation in the northern part of the country. For example, in or around the village of Bendern as this will tie in best with your activities over the following days.

Alternatively, you can choose accommodation in the Appenzell district of Switzerland which will fit in well with the next leg of this Switzerland road trip but be prepared that it will be a tad bit more expensive.

If you’re looking to save some money during your 2 weeks in Switzerland, staying in Liechtenstein is a great alternative! You’ll need to book 2 nights in this tiny country, below you can see my recommendations.

LUXURY – Romantik Hotel Säntis

Located directly at Appenzell’s historical town square, the “Landsgemeindeplatz”, the Romantik Hotel Säntis, with its grand façade, offers a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. All rooms have a work desk, a safe and a TV. Each room has a private bathroom. The hotel also offers extensive spa and seminar facilities.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Restaurant Schlössli Sax

Located on the border of the Appenzell district and Sax in Switzerland, this recently renovated hotel offers immaculate rooms with private bathrooms and superb views of the incredible scenery. Breakfast is included in the rate and there is free parking on site.

BUDGET – b_smart hotel Bendern

This smart hotel features a gym, sauna, sun terrace, and bar. Contemporary rooms are well equipped with all the necessities you will need and breakfast is included in the rate. Parking is available at the hotel for free.

Day 13: Hiking at Ebenalp

Driving time: 35 minutes (35 km/22 miles) from Bendern, Liechtenstein to Wasserrauen

Today you will explore the mountain of Ebenalp, the northernmost summit of the Appenzell Alps and an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Your total distance covered and driving time will depend on where you book your accommodation for these two days.

From the Bendern area to Ebenalp, you will need to drive for 35 minutes (35 km/22 miles). If you stay in the Appenzell district then your drive time will be significantly shorter.

You’ll find tons of different hiking trails in Ebenalp so be prepared for a full day of hiking! You can even opt to hike all the way up instead of using the cable car if you want to save money but I would still recommend to choose the cable car to save time.

The route we did in Ebenalp was the following: first we took the cable car up to Ebenalp, we hiked a little bit down to visit Aescher-Windkirchli, then we hiked all the way up to Schäfler Ridge. On the way back we hiked down to Seealpsee then concluded our hike back at Wasserrauen.

It was a pretty demanding hike and it took us the whole day but I can totally recommend doing the same! If you’re not big on hiking, you can skip Schäfler Ridge and only visit the rest of the places.

Aescher-Wildkirchli

Once you’re in Ebenalp, you can park your car in Wasserrauen and locate the cable car which will whisk you away into the mountains for your first sight. A return ticket costs 34 CHF (€35) per person but if you want to follow the same route we did, it’s enough to buy a one-way ticket for 22 CHF (€22.70).

If you would rather, then you can actually hike up to Äscher-Wildkirchli by following the track up through the woodlands from Wasserauen. The total length from here to the ridge is around 7.5 km (4.7 miles) and there is a fair amount of elevation (around 1,200 meters / 3,936 feet) so you should plan around 3-4 hours to complete the route if you skip the cable car.

Aescher-Wildkirchli is a complex of caves cut into the cliffs that feature a chapel and a museum of excavated finds for you to explore.

There’s also one of the most scenic restaurants in the world waiting for you up here! It takes around 20 minutes to reach the restaurant from the Ebenalp cable car station and since the road mostly goes down, it’s a very easy hike.

Aescher-Wildkirchli, Ebenalp, Switzerland

Schäffler Ridge Hike

From Aescher-Wildkirchli you can start your hiking section of the day and head up the mountains to the Schäffler Ridge, a remarkable natural phenomenon that grants you a view across Austria and Germany on a clear day.

It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the mountain hut on the top and since you have to tackle 450 meters of elevation gain I’d say it’s a moderate difficulty hike.

There is a cute little guesthouse on top where you can relax a little bit or have something to eat/drink. It’s also possible to stay at the hut for the night but you have to book it in advance. If you want to find the best viewpoint on the top, just continue for a few minutes up behind the mountain hut!

Continue your adventure by hiking down to the gorgeous lake, Seealpsee, from the Schaeffler Ridge.

The descent is pretty steep and if you’re wary of heights this track might not be for you. There is however a rope rail for added security as you make your way down and the scenery ahead is out of this world.

That being said, this hike is still pretty challenging so it’s not really for beginners! I’m not an experienced hiker and I was still able to complete it but oh boy, it was hard! This section took us more than 2.5 hours.

Once you reach the lake you can walk around the whole perimeter in around 30 minutes. This is a popular swimming lake, especially in summer.

However, before you take the plunge, you should expect the water to be freezing year-round! From here you can walk back down to Wasserauen which takes around 45-60 minutes.

Day 14: Liechtenstein to Zurich

Today you will drive to your starting point and final destination on this road trip in Switzerland, Zurich. The total drive time today will again depend on where your accommodation is.

From Bendern to Zürich via the locations listed below, you are looking at 155 km (96.3 miles) and a drive time of around 3 hours.

Saxer Lücke Viewpoint Hike

Driving time: 10 minutes (7.5 km/4.5 miles) from Bendern, Liechtenstein to Frümsen Cable Car Station

The final hike on your list is a nice and easy one but it gives you an unparalleled view of the Appenzell district and neighboring Liechtenstein as you traverse this ridgeline at an elevation of 1800 meters (5,905 feet).

The hike to the viewpoint is a 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip over a rocky path which is of easy to moderate difficulty. At some points, the track is quite loose with steep drop-offs so you’ll need sturdy footwear. For the most challenging parts of the track, you will find ropeways to hold onto.

The trailhead is accessible from the top of the Frümsen-Staubern cable car (a return ticket costs 36 CHF/€37) and it takes around 2.5 hours to complete the entire loop.

If you want to extend the hike then you can also walk down to Falensee once you reach the Saxer Lücke viewpoint which adds a further 2 km (1.2 miles) to your hike.

Stadtbibliothek St. Gallen

Driving time: 40 minutes (58 km/36 miles) from Frümsen Cable Car Station to St. Gallen

The last attraction to check out before you reach Zurich is the beautiful library located in the Abbey of Saint Gall in the city of St. Gallen. This baroque abbey was originally founded in the 8th century and the library is one of the oldest from the medieval era.

You’ll see ancient books, as well as historic artifacts and relics from the monastery complex and the painted ceilings, are an attraction in themselves.

A ticket costs 18 CHF (€18.50) which includes a visit to the Abbey Library, the Vaulted Cellar, and the Exhibition Space. Unfortunately, you can’t take any pictures inside the library and it’s rather small so it only takes around 15-20 minutes to visit it.

That being said, it’s really unique so it’s absolutely worth stopping by! If you have a little bit more time, it’s also worth strolling around the town itself, the streets are incredibly picturesque.

Ps: Don’t worry, I didn’t break any rules and I didn’t take any pictures in the library. I bought a postcard at the shop and simply took a photo of that so I can show you how the library looks like!

Arriving to Zurich

Driving time: 1 hour (85 km/53 miles) from St. Gallen to Zurich

Your Switzerland road trip is slowly coming to an end so it’s time to head back to Zurich, where you started. It takes around 1 hour to reach Zurich from St. Gallen so if you started early enough, you can still factor in some extra sightseeing time in Zurich.

This is a great opportunity if there are some more places left on your list that you didn’t have time to visit on the first day of your Switzerland itinerary. But if you’d rather just sit back and relax, no one would blame you – you just had an adventurous 2 weeks in Switzerland after all!

Planning a trip to Switzerland?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Switzerland. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

28 Incredible Zermatt Hotels with Matterhorn View
One Day in Zurich Itinerary: How to See the Best of Zurich in a Day
The Ultimate One Day in Bern Itinerary
The Perfect Itinerary for Spending One Day in Geneva
11 Most Beautiful Castles in Switzerland You Can’t Miss
Hotel Review: Boutique Hotel Glacier, Switzerland
Hotel Review: Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz

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10 thoughts on “The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks”

Thank you for this itinerary! I find Switzerland planning to be so overwhelming and this is incredibly helpful + the map is how my brain thinks so including this with the route saved me so much time and stress. I have a question about the images under Lauterbrunnen- were these taken in Lauterbrunnen? I want to spend more time in this place and want to ensure it’s correct. Thank you!

Thanks so much for your lovely comment! I know how you feel, planning this road trip was really overwhelming and took me so much time to put together before we left. And I feel you about the map too – I always plan my trips with a map so I’m glad that you found it useful as well! 🙂

Yes, the three images under Lauterbrunnen were all taken in the town. It truly looks like a fairytale but it’s a really small town so you won’t need more than a couple of hours to walk around it and take some photos.

HI! I’ve read so many Switzerland itineraries and I found yours very helpful. Do you think this itinerary is doable with my 67yo mom? She is still very healthy and does walking every day. Thank you!

Yes absolutely! Maybe you will have to skip the longer hikes or just do smaller sections of it but other than that, I think it’s totally doable.

Hi, Your itinerary for two weeks is very good. If you have the opportunity to stay longer, there are lot of more really wonderful spots to visit (Appenzell, Gruyères, Jura, and lots more). Even though, the city of Basel is an absolute must for every trip, wouldn’t you agree ?

Kind regards, Peter

Hey, thanks so much for your commend and suggestions! Yes, you are absolutely right, these are all very worthy additions to a Switzerland road trip. Unfortunately we couldn’t make it during our last trip to Switzerland, hopefully next time.

Hi. Biiiiig fan of yous. Okay so I have a question to ask. If you also add which time you personally visited or I can Say when or in which months your Photos have been taken, it would be nice.

Hey, thank you so much for your lovely comment! Most of these photos were taken in the months of August and September.

Such an awesome job you’ve done here. Thank you! We are planning our trip from April 23-May 7. Your guide is going to be very helpful.

Thank you so much for your lovely comment! Hope you will have a great time in Switzerland.

Top 5 Driving Routes in Germany, Austria & Switzerland

Insider's Guides | Europe | By Mario Koch

Although we’re known to take the slow road to see the world , once in a while, it can be nice to see it from the fast lane. This rings especially true if you’re travelling through Germany on four wheels—its legendary Autobahn is the stuff of drivers’ dreams. With no speed limit in some stretches, the combination of top-notch driving and stunning scenery, driving in this region will make you wish your road trip took longer.

It’s worth mentioning, too, that along the way, with Germany’s excellent infrastructure, you’ll find great biking routes, with scenic hikes almost anywhere there’s a natural setting.

Here are some of the most beautiful driving routes in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, rich in history, culture and scenery.

1. Königssee to Bodensee, Germany

The long and winding (german alpine) road.

Highlights: Mount Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak; King Ludwig II’s castles, including Herrenchiemsee and Neuschwanstein; Oberammergau; Lake Königssee, the deepest and cleanest lake in Germany. Route: Königssee to Bodensee, Germany Length: 450 km (280 mi.)

2. Würzburg to Füssen, Germany

Quintessential german scenery on the romantic road.

An old medieval route in the south of Germany, the Romantische Strasse (Romantic Road) is perennially popular for its “quintessentially German” sights, like medieval towns and iconic castles, including King Ludwig II’s beloved Neuschwanstein. Steeped in history and preserved in time, from Roman ruins to the fortified walls of Rothenburg ob der Tauber—spared from Allied bombs in the Second World War—you’ll also find rich Franconian wine regions to explore.

Highlights: The Bavarian King Ludwig II’s trinity of castles: Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau, and Linderhof; two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Würzburg Residence and the Pilgrimage Church of Wies. Route: From Würzburg to Füssen, Germany Length: 350 km (220 mi.)

3. Hanau to Baunatal, Germany

The german fairy tale road.

Known and loved the world around, the tales of the Brothers Grimm are childhood classics. Traverse this whimsical road from Hanau, their birthplace, to Baunatal, birthplace of Dorothea Viehmann, from whom the Grimm brothers learned many tales. All the classic fairytale characters are here: Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, and more. Along the way, visit many of the towns featured in their stories, including Bremen, and even Sleeping Beauty’s castle in the ancient forest of Reinhardswald. Let these magical stories come to life as you navigate this route!

Highlights: Steinau’s Grimm House, where the brothers once lived; Alsfeld, featuring the house of Little Red Riding Hood; Bad Wildungen’s Snow White museum; UNESCO Heritage site of Bremen town hall and statue of Roland; Sababurg, the Sleeping Beauty castle in the Reinhardswald. Route: Hanau to Baunatal, Germany Length: 600 km (372 mi.)

4. Bruck to Carinthia, Austria

Austria’s hairpin turns on the high alpine road.

Not for the faint of heart, if you’re truly looking for a bucket list drive, Austria’s Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse is the one for you. Yes, it’s scenic, with all the Alps you can handle (no less than 37 mountains), rolling hills and wildflower-filled valleys to those pristine lakes, but you’ll be watching the road as you take 36 thrilling hairpin bends around the mountains, reaching just over 2,500 metres above sea level. Whew! The drive takes about an hour; start early to avoid all the gawkers and photo-snappers.

Highlights: Did we mention the 36 hairpin turns? Once you’ve completed this drive, along with all the tour buses, cars, motorcycles and even brave cyclists taking on this Giro d’Italia route, you can pat yourself on the back for having completed one of the most epic drives of all time, not to mention the highest surfaced mountain pass road in Austria. Route: Bruck to Carinthia, Austria. Note that due to impassable conditions due to snow, this route is typically only open June to September. Length: 48 km. (30 mi.)

5. Martigny, Switzerland to Aosta, Italy

Switzerland’s great st. bernard pass.

This famed mountain route is home to the iconic dog of Swiss hospitality, the St. Bernard, along with the monks from the same order. On this historic route, used for thousands of years, you’ll pass through the postcard-perfect landscape of the Swiss Alps, surrounded on each side by peaks and crags. As you travel, rise as high as 2,490 metres above sea level through tunnels and winding alpine roads, complete with vivid green meadows and the bluest lakes you’ve ever seen.

Highlights: History is on your side: you’ll be travelling the oldest path in the Western Alps, which was used as early as the Bronze Age, stretching to the Roman era and beyond; it was even marched by Napoleon’s men as they made their way to Italy in 1800. Route: Martigny, Switzerland to Aosta, Italy (near Milan). Note that due to impassable conditions due to snow, this route is typically only open June to September. Length: 76 km (47 mi.)

We're Not In Kansas Anymore!

travel inspiration!

Free Epic Germany Itinerary: 2 weeks plus Austria Switzerland France!

Germany itinerary 14 days: Are you wanting to plan an epic 14 day Germany Itinerary but not sure where to start?

I collected info on some of the best things to do in Southern Germany and combined them into an epic two week Germany Itinerary that includes some main attractions in France, Switzerland, and Austria.

Table of Contents

Germany itinerary: 2 weeks

Sound like a lot of travel in just two weeks? Germany Austria Switzerland France are all located in central Europe and are all quite close so they make a tidy little driving route.

All of this can be done in a 10 day or 14 day trip . I have worked this into a 2 week Germany Travel itinerary for you but doing this Europe trip in 10 days is actually ample time but you won’t be able to see it all.

This itinerary is packed full. Yes it was tiring, but there’ll be plenty of time to rest afterwards!

Travel style for this trip

dense forests, dreamy castles, cobbled streets, river valleys with lazy winding rivers, alpine lakes, mountains, waterfalls and much more!

All of the towns are smaller towns, no big cities . Unless you decide to make your way to bigger cities like Köln as add-ons, Strasbourg France (pop. 278,000) is the largest city on the itinerary.

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Where to stay?

I’m only going to recommend a few choice spots because I am confident that you are capable of choosing your own accommodations. My favorite place to search accommodations is booking.com. Make you’re trip really special by booking a castle hotel on the Rhine !

Trip Route: Two Weeks Germany itinerary:

Total drive time for the entire trip: less than 20 hours

This route was planned to be as efficient as possible adding as many highlights as possible with as little driving as possible.

You get an incredible bang for your buck, seeing some of Europe’s best attractions, in a very reasonable amount of drive time.

Germany Austria Switzerland France road trip itinerary 2 week germany itinerary

Getting around

Public transport.

It’s affordable and efficient, but you’re at the mercy of transit schedules.

HOWEVER this trip can be done by train, but you may need to make choices because regional trains and buses can be slow.

You can explore route options at the Deutsche Bahn website but I find it easier to use Google Maps to plan train travel. You might find my introductory blog on public transit helpful: Public Transportation For Beginners.

driving: Germany road trip itinerary

A road trip is the best way to do this trip. If you have reservations about driving in Germany don’t. With some preparation, you won’t have any trouble.

1-Do yourself a big favor and add the GPS onto your car rental, or bring one along. We have this GPS unit from Garmin (purchase Europe maps separately.)

2- You may need an International Driving Permit permit to drive in Europe . Get one at your local AAA office.

3-Rental Car: I like to start my search at Booking.com or Expedia to get an idea of which companies are offering the best rates and then make my way to the rental car company website to do further research and book with the company directly.

One of the easiest and best places to pick up a rental car is at the airport.

Arriving in Germany

First time in Germany? Don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to traveling in Germany !

Our adventure starts at Frankfurt International Airport (FRA.) I normally find the best flight times/schedules and rates flying into and out of Frankfurt International. (not to be confused with Frankfurt-Hahn Airport HHN.)

enough of the technical stuff! let’s get started on the fun stuff.

*** Day 1 ***

Rhine River Cruise, Rheinstein and Rheinfels Castle

where to stay day #1

Want to stay in a castle? There are 3 fabulous opportunities for an overnight stay in a castle in this section of the Rhine River. Burg Rheinstein , Burg Rheinfels , and Castlehotel Schönburg (Burghotel auf Schönburg ) Each has romantic views overlooking the Rhine River. Need more options? see this full list of castle hotels on the Rhine !

burghotel auf schonburg castle hotel germany

drive time for the day

approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

(from Frankfurt International Airport to the castle of your choice)

Rhine River Valley

Our trip itinerary starts (and ends) in Germany. First up is the beautiful Rhine River .

(Drive to Rheinstein Castle in the Rhine River Valley for our first stop on the Germany itinerary)

The Rhine River for castles and a cruise! The Rhine river winds lazily through Germany, its banks littered with castles and adorable villages.

The Rhine River is almost 800 miles long but the most scenic section spans a mere 50 miles, from Bingen to Koblenz.

You may be interested in: Must See Rhine River Castles !

Rheinstein Castle

Cute little Rheinstein Castle is immaculate, compact, and almost homey. It was built in 1316, has a drawbridge, portcullis, a courtyard with a lush garden, and 500-year-old grape vines that still produce grapes…and fantastic views of the Rhine!

(Next drive to Bacharach)

Rhine River Cruise

Our next stop is in the tiny town of Bacharach for a short but sweet cruise down the Rhine River.

The KD (Koln-Dusseldorer) Line cruise of the Rhine , round trip from Bacharach to Sankt Goar is a good option for a short 45 minute each way pleasant and relaxing ride down the river.

My husband enjoyed his very first beer in Germany, my sister-in-law a glass of wine, while I drank up the atmosphere of the beautiful Rhine River.

Rhine River Cruise Collage the best of the Rhine River from Bacharach to Sankt Goar on the KD Cruise line Germany

(photo credits: Nick Kunze and Angela M. Kunze)

The cruise stops in St. Goar where you’ll have a 2 hour and 20 minute wait for your return boat to Bacharach, enough time for lunch if you didn’t already eat, and to visit Rheinfels castle.

Rheinfels Castle ruins

This castle was built in 1245 AD. Not only is it the best castle ruin on the river it is also still the largest castle on the Rhine. The castle was once 5 times its current size, and successfully withstood an army of 28,000 French soldiers. Impressive!

There’s a tourist train that will take you up to Rheinfels Castle , or take the nature trail up (15 minutes each way.)

Rheinfels Castle Rhine River castle ruins Germany

*** Day 2 ***

Rhine and Moselle River Valley : explore the cute villages in the Rhine Valley and Cochem on the banks of the Moselle River

where to stay day 1 (and day 3)

Cochem Germany

drive time for the da y

approx. 1 hour 15 minutes

(your Rhine Accommodations to Cochem)

Take a look at the map of the best of the Rhine and fill this one day however you please.

Spend a little more time exploring the surrounding area villages of Bacharach, Sankt Goar (originated in Celtic times,) and Oberwesel (more of a town than a village vibe than the other two but it was a Celtic town way back in 400 BC.)

Choose some of your favorite castles. All of the ones shown on this map are good choices.

(Drive to Cochem Germany)

Moselle River Valley

Unique dining opportunity: If you can make it work with your schedule, reserve a table at Alte Muhle Thomas Horeth restaurant. You’ll find it’s an easy stop between the River Rhine and Cochem. The restaurant is located in a 1,000 year old mill ! Reserve a table in the wine cellar!

Reichsburg Castle in Cochem as seen across the Moselle River in Germany

*** Day 3 ***

Cochem (Reichsburg) and Burg Eltz Castles

where to stay day 3 (2nd of two nights)

total drive time for the day

none! Enjoy the short but scenic train ride! Otherwise, 1 hour if you decide to drive to the castle.

The Moselle River meanders through Germany, France, Luxembourg and Belgium and is lined with terraced vineyards, castles, and picture perfect little wine villages with half-timbered houses.

The small town of Cochem sits on either side of the Moselle River. This charming little village, with its medieval town center, has a population of 5,000, but during the day is quite popular with tourists and river cruise passengers.

Evenings are pleasantly quiet and nighttime in Cochem is a treat , the perfect place for an evening stroll. The lights from the town reflect off of the river and the castle up on the hill, warmly lit and glowing, is a bit reminiscent of Hogwarts.

You’ll need to get an early start to hit both of these castles in one day. Try to be at Reichsburg Castle as soon as it opens.

Reichsburg Castle

Reichsburg Castle, this Gothic beauty sits majestically on a hill overlooking Cochem and the Mosel River. The first historical mention of the castle was in the year 1130, but was destroyed and was rebuilt in 1868. You can hike up to the castle, or take the shuttle bus up the hill.

Burg Eltz Castle

A trip to the stunning 865 year old Burg (Castle) Eltz will transport you back to medieval times. The castle is currently owned and occupied by the same families who have owned it since it was built!

Getting there by train: You can drive to the castle BUT… you can also take the regional trains from Cochem to Mosellkern and from there take an idyllic 1.5-hour walk through the forest to the castle. It’s an easy half hours train ride.

The trail through the woods and your first peek at the castle..

Get full details on visiting Burg Eltz in my complete visitor’s guide to Burg Eltz.

eltz castle view from a distance by Photo by David Emrich on Unsplash

where to eat in Cochem:

Alte Wein Wirtschaf-Cochem has a rustic wine cellar vibe . Their Rahmschnitzel (a s chnitzel with a creamy mushroom sauce ) was seriously tasty!

Have more time?

Cologne (Köln) Germany day trips . If you have more time to spend on your Germany trip and don’t mind larger cities, the beautiful 2,000 year old city of Cologne is an easy day trip from the train station in Cochem and worth visiting.

Population: approx. 1 million. It’s a 2-2.5 hour train ride, faster by car but you’ll be dealing with traffic and parking.

The top site in the beautiful city of Cologne, the Cologne Cathedral , is a world heritage site. Construction began on this massive gothic cathedral in 1248 and ended some 500 years later.

There are 24 museums as well as a historic old town and Roman Ruins . And much more! Explore all of Cologne’s many attractions on the tripadvisor site .

*** Day 4 and Day 5 ***

Strasbourg France

where to stay night 4 and night 5

3 hours 30 minutes day 4, zero on day 5!

(drive from Cochem to Strasbourg France)

You’re in Western Germany and the trip down south to our next stops will take you oh so close to France so why not add it!?

Our France itinerary takes us to the Alsace region of France. Control of Alsace has alternated between France and Germany throughout the centuries and so it has a perfectly charming mix of the two. Today the Alsace region it is located in France.

Strasbourg France is a small city by world standards with a population of 277,000, is the biggest city on our itinerary.

Enjoy exploring Strasbourg by foot or take a tour out into wine country. (Alsace is the wine region of France)

Guys! Alsace is amazing and magical around Christmas! Alsace France Christmas Market Itinerary

Notre Dame Cathedral

(Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg) is one of the tallest churches in Europe. The Gothic / Romanesque Strasbourg Cathedral was once the tallest building in the word . A UNESCO World Heritage site it is now the 6th tallest church in the world.

Christmas Markets

if you happen to be visiting from late November through the month of December Strasbourg has one of Europe’s best Christmas Markets!

Alsatian Museum will transport you back in history through a series of reconstructed historically decorated rooms.

Alsace after dark

Alsace is romantically lit at night. Be sure to get out for a stroll after the sun goes down.

boat ride on the river Ill

Take a boat ride on the River Ill. Boats run year round and take you on a 70 minute ride down the river, around the Grand Isl (another UNESCO site) and back to your original destination.

La Petite France

La Petite France, located on the Grand Isl, is a charming medieval quarter of half-timbered houses overlooking the Ill River. Slow down the pace and explore the nooks and crannies of this picturesque little spot.

You have two days to enjoy this beautiful City!

*** Day 6 ***

The Black Forest

(Back to Germany! drive to Triberg Germany. This is your longest travel day so you’ll want to get an early start.)

where to stay night 6

The adorable little alpine hotel Hotel Alpenrose is within walking distance of Ebenalp Cable car and offers spacious rooms with balconies facing the mountains. Open your balcony door for the relaxing sounds of water running off of the mountain.

4 hours (without a stop over at the lake)

(drive from Strasbourg France to Wasseraun Switzerland, stopping over in the Black Forest)

The black Forest (Schwartzwald!)

When in Germany, a trip to the Black Forest is practically obligatory. The Black Forest (Schwartzwald) is known for it’s dense forests, cute villages, cuckoo clocks and of course delicious Black Forest Cake .

Triberg is a cute colorful little village in The Black Forest and is a great place to stop for a little taste of all of those things!

The Triberg Waterfall is touted as the highest in Germany . An immaculate little trail though the fores t leads you from town the short distance to the waterfall. You’ll be surrounded by babbling brooks and moss covered rocks. If you care to linger a bit longer there are additional trails that surround the waterfall.

Black Forest Cake There are plenty of places in town to get a taste of the famed Black Forest Cake that originated in this area. Just stop into any of the cafes or bakeries as you stroll through town shopping for cuckoo clocks.

You’ll find all of the ins and outs of visiting Triberg in my article titled:

Triberg in the Black Forest: Germany’s highest waterfall, cuckoo clocks, & black forest cake!

(Let’s head to Switzerland! Continue your drive south to Wasserauen . Don’t forget to stop and purchase a Swiss Vignette sticker or purchase in advance (like a toll pass.) At around 40 CHF it’s a bit pricey but it’s Switzerland…everything is.)

Have more time and need more ideas? Lake Constance Before you cross over from Switzerland into Germany you will be driving near Lake Constance (Konstanz) known as Bodensee in German if you have worked the time into your itinerary it makes a good addition.

*** Day 7 ***

spend the day on the mountain, Ebenalp Switzerland

where to stay day 7, 8, 9, 10

Fussen Germany

2 hours 10 minutes

(drive from Wasserauen Switzerland to Fussen Germany)

Switzerland

A little Switzerland on the side! Switzerland is one of the most beautiful, peaceful and stunning places on planet earth and the next stop on our itinerary is certainly no exception! Not only is the scenery stunning but it doesn’t seem to be crowded which in my opinion makes it even more appealing.

Switzerland is extraordinary and it is also one of the most expensive places to travel to but totally worth it so let’s add a little Switzerland into our itinerary!

If there is one thing you are almost guaranteed to not like about your time in Switzerland is that it wasn’t long enough!

Berggasthaus Aescher is a hotel built into the side of a mountain in Switzerland. Take the Ebenalp cable car up to the top of Ebenalp Mountain and then hike back down , stopping at the stunning Eibsee Lake , for a fabulous day of adventure and outstanding natural beauty!

Berggasthaus Aescher

Berggasthaus Aescher is a quirky little hotel and restaurant built into the side of Ebenalp Mountain. If you get to the top and the morning fog has not yet lifted, head to Berggasthaus Aescher, and enjoy some refreshments while you wait out the fog. We shared a cheesy potato dish common to the region called Rosti. My husband enjoyed a warm liquor coffee drink, while the rest of us sipped hot tea.

Wildkirchli

Wildkirchli is a 400 year old cave church on Ebenalp. If you happen to find yourself at the top of Ebenalp on a Sunday you are in for a treat of a different kind. The church choir gathers at Berggasthaus Aescher before church services to practice their hymns, a heavenly sound somewhere between a hymn and a yodel. Still waiting out the fog? The congregation welcomes visitors to their services which are in German. Hear the glorious voices of the swiss mountain choir on my Youtube Channel! and follow this link to see the video of church services .

Head on down the mountain but be cautious, the steep trails are a little treacherous and wet but are peaceful and the views are stunning !

Seealpsee Lake

About midway down the mountain is the stunningly beautiful Seealpsee Lake . The tiny lake is a stunning shade of emerald green , surrounded by a walking trail, and has a snow peaked mountain in the background.

Read my Ebenalp / Seealpsee article here: Wasserauen Ebenalp Mountain Switzerland: unique experiences and stunning scenery !

ebenalp seealpsee lake ebenalp mountain switzerland

When in Rome….I mean Switzerland!

Two of the things that Switzerland is known for are fondue and chocolate . Give them a try!

Now back to Germany! drive to Fussen Germany

keep reading on the next page!

Magic Unveiled: Enchanting German Fairytale destinations (with photos! and maps!)

How to see highline 179 and ehrenberg castle: one location two amazing attractions (2024), ultimate german souvenirs guide, what to buy in germany (photos), ultimate 7 day austria itinerary (salzburg, hallstatt, more), 21 comments.

What a terrific itinerary! You were able to pack in so many fun activities and see gorgeous places. I’d love to go for a hike around some of the lakes pictured above. They look so pristine and peaceful.

Thank you Michelle! I too am a fan of pristine and peaceful! Must needed rest after this this packed 2 week Germany itinerary!

This sounds like such a great trip! I love how detailed it is and how many useful tips you included in your post. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for reading my two week Germany itinerary! stay tuned for more great Europe itineraries at We’re Not in Kansa Anymore!

This is the most comprehensive post on visiting Germanyige ever seen, thank you so much for taking the time to put this together! We’re about to start a road trip and will be driving thru Germany from Switzerland so I’ve bookmarked this for activities during our trip! ☺️

Oh dear it was a big article but I wanted to be thorough LOL It is amazing if you are willing to hit the ground running how much you can actually fit into a 2 week Germany itinerary! We don’t get a ot of time off so we have to try and see and do as much as possible in the time that we have. I’m looking forward to retirement when I can linger for while, and possibly even get bored (but in a good way!) Enjoy your trip! such a wonderful part of the world. -Angie Kunze, We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

Whoa! Putting this itinerary on my wanderlust list! Thank you for doing so much leg work and planning.

Thank you so much! I enjoy the planning this 2 week Germany itinerary ALMOST as much as I enjoy the travel. Stay tuned for my upcoming Germany itinerary including Austria and Slovenia!

What a fabulous itinerary – you have made my planning so much easier. And the food – can’t wait to try that!

The food is one of my favorite things about travel and our 2 week Germany itinerary was jam pack with amazing food! Have you seen my “ first time in Germany? the top 16 deliciously mouthwatering German food you must try ” article?

Wow! Such a wonderful trip! I have to save this itinerary because all spots looks fabulous ☺️

Wow! I have to save this itinerary because all spots looks fabulous ☺️

Thanks for reading and saving! I really feel like this epic “2 week Germany Itinerary” is a great choice for fist time visitors to Europe who are focusing on Germany. It hits a lot of highlights that just make for a really fantastic trip. I spent untold hours laboring over this itinerary but readers and just take it, start the booking prices, go and enjoy! -Angie, We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

Squeeee what a fantastic itinerary! I LOVE visiting castles, and this has sooo many good’uns! Throw in some tasty food and fabulous mountain views and this looks like an amaaaaazing trip!

All favorites of mine too! I can’t wait to get back to this amazing part of the world again! If you know anything about me you know Germany is the place that my heart longs for but let’s be honest, France, Switzerland and Austria are pretty darn great too!

Wow! I have been to Germany, Switzerland and Austria before but there are so many places in your itinerary that I haven’t seen! Definitely need to go back. Great pictures.

I need to go back to Europe too! in particular my beloved Germany! Fingers crossed I can make that happen very soon! I have a new “2 week Germany itinerary” in the making, this time with Austria and Slovenia! Stay tuned! (you can sign up at the bottom of the page for my email list and I’ll let you know when something new publishes.) -Angie Kunze

Wow, I love how much useful information you included in this article. And I see that you are a foodie just like I am 🙂 I’m certainly going to save this one. Been to Germany many times but I still have a lot to explore 😍

Food is life! and yes, it seems you can never run out of wonderful things to do in Germany! Have you seen my “First time in Germany? 16 mouthwatering foods you must try!” article? “

I’ve been to Germany a couple times, and still haven’t seen quite a few places. I would love to see the Neuschwanstein Castle. I realize it’s touristy, but I feel like I must go at least once! Great job on pulling all of these amazing destinations into a 2-week trip!

Sometimes I’m totally ok with touristy stuff. I can be lots of fun! This two (2) week Germany Itinerary that included Austria, Switzerland, and France was our first big trip to Europe and so we added a lot of “highlights” which sometimes can tend to be touristy. The hope is that someday we will have spend enough them there that we can slow down and do some more immersive stuff! Thanks for commenting! Angie, We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

14-Day Road Trip to Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia

Photo of beautiful view of historic city center of Zurich with famous Fraumunster Church.

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 14-day multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Zurich, Prague, and Nuremberg sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.

This enchanting 14-day multi-country tour allows you to journey through 4 extraordinary countries in Europe.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Switzerland, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. Explore charming locales such as Zurich, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

As you move on to the second country, Germany, prepare to be mesmerized by its diverse and vibrant landscapes. Immerse yourself in the allure of Schwangau, Munich, and Nuremberg, where every street tells a story, and every corner reveals a new adventure.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Austria. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Vienna. From ancient architecture to culinary delights, Austria invites you to immerse yourself in its rich culture and experience a voyage like no other.

As your Euro trip unfolds, you'll find yourself in Czechia. Czechia offers a multitude of experiences to explore in destinations like Lednice and Prague. Whether you seek relaxation or crave excitement, Czechia promises an unforgettable journey filled with unforgettable moments.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 4 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.

In more detail, this carefully crafted travel itinerary invites you to stay 3 nights in Switzerland, 4 nights in Germany, 4 nights in Austria, and 2 nights in Czechia. During these 14 days, you will be able to fully embrace the extraordinary beauty and immersive wonders of top destinations such as Zurich, Prague, and Nuremberg and beyond.

Throughout your tour around Europe, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

You can review and select your preferred accommodation for each destination of your road trip around Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia in the booking widget to the right of your screen or by scrolling down to the travel itinerary for each day of your trip.

Upon your arrival in Switzerland, you’ll be greeted by the captivating city of Zurich. Here, you're going to collect your chosen rental car and begin your 14-day adventure. While in Zurich, you’ll have the chance to visit some of the best attractions in the city, including Lindenhof and the fascinating Grossmünster. This is only the start of all the wonders you'll be able to experience throughout your tour around Europe.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Munich’s Marienplatz and Vienna's iconic Schönbrunn Palace. In Prague, marvel at the extraordinary Prague Castle. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy!

Shop at the popular shopping centers in Zurich, Prague, and Nuremberg and embark on a quest for rare souvenirs to give your friends and family back home. Shopping abroad is a fun experience that allows you to discover exclusive items that may not be available in your home country. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 14-day self-drive adventure in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail.

Make the most of this multi-country holiday package by adapting it to your needs. Effortlessly include top-tier car rental services and drive through the continent’s enchanting landscapes with confidence. The included insurance coverage ensures a seamless and stress-free journey. Choose from a range of lavish or wallet-friendly lodgings to wake up well-rested on each day of your trip. Add flight tickets for a smooth arrival and departure. Lastly, upgrade your road trip experience with the best tours and activities along your route to have something fun to look forward to at each destination.

This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries in one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Attractions

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Personalize your itinerary, day 1 – zurich - arrival day.

Zürich - Arrival day

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

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

After a long journey to Zurich, we're here to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable start to your road trip adventure. Your first accommodation will be located in central Zurich, making sightseeing in the city effortless.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Zurich. 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.

Weisses Rössli, a well-loved restaurant in the city of Zurich, offers great food and ambiance. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 525 customers.

Alternatively, another top-rated restaurant worth trying in Zurich is the popular Zeughauskeller. This restaurant is an excellent dining option with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,976 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out Swiss Chuchi Restaurant. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,383 customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Old Crow, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Old Crow has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 935 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Tales Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Tales Bar captures hearts with its 4.8 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 628 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Kennedy's Irish Pub, another local party gem in Zurich. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,395 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia 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.

Experiences

Day 2 – zurich.

Drive 11 km, 39 min

Kunsthaus Zürich
Grossmünster
Zürich Opera House

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Zurich. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Zoo Zürich is a travelers’ favorite in Zurich, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,193 visitors.

In Zurich, don’t miss Kunsthaus Zürich, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,967 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 382,603 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Zurich off your list when you visit the wonderful Grossmünster. This popular sight is an outstanding church, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,833 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Zürich Opera House. This place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,390 reviews.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Zurich has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Switzerland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Zurich's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Switzerland to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Zurich has them.

Its delightful modern french and contemporary cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its exceptional quality. Widder Restaurant, which has a Bib Gourmand award, gives you the best value for your money, and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

With 2 Michelin star rating, it’s a haven for food lovers and enthusiasts. IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada proudly maintains an outstanding reputation, attracting diners from near and far, who have been delighted by its sharing and modern culinary offerings.

Its 2-Michelin star menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a gastronomic adventure. This Bib-Gourmand awarded restaurant’s creative and modern dishes and numerous glowing reviews from satisfied patrons have solidified its reputation as a culinary gem in the heart of the city.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Markthalle, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Zurich. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,771 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Rimini Bar, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, one of the top-rated bars in Zurich, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 870 satisfied customers.

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

Day 3 – Zurich, Schwangau, and Munich

Drive 376 km, 5 hours 5 min

Königliche Kristall-Therme am Kurpark Schwangau
Hohenschwangau Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle
Marienbrücke

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Schwangau and Munich in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Munich. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Munich in Germany. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Germany. This drive usually takes around 4 hours and 42 minutes.

Elevate your experience in Munich by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful city.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to include a unique blend of top-rated experiences to your travel diary. Browse all of your options below and reserve your slot before it's too late.

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

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Munich. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Renowned for its prestigious 2 Michelin star rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, Atelier has consistently impressed its foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative french cuisine.

Have a fulfilling dinner from its enticing modern french and creative menu, which has consistently earned EssZimmer high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top dining choice has been awarded a Bib Gourmand, so prepare for an amazing and high-quality food experience.

Its delectable creative and modern offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be glad to know that this restaurant has also been awarded Bib Gourmand status.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Hofbräuhaus München. This famous bar in Munich has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 65,884 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Schneider Bräuhaus München. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Schneider Bräuhaus München has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,282 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant. 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,885 customers.

As the night falls in Munich, 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.

Day 4 – Munich

Drive 21 km, 53 min

Olympiapark
English Garden
Eisbachwelle

On day 4, you will wake up in Munich with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Munich before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

A tour of Munich is not complete without a visit to the famous Olympiapark München. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 60,982 travelers.

Make the most of your Munich travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful BMW Museum. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,365 travelers and gets around 250,000 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible BMW Welt for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,049 visitors, with up to 3,000,000 people including this popular attraction in their Munich tour itinerary each year.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Eisbachwelle.

While in Munich, take the chance to join a popular tour to experience something one-of-a-kind during your getaway in Germany. Check out all the tours Munich offers, and personalize your vacation package to your preferences for an amazing day in the region.

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

According to reviews, Ratskeller München is one of the absolute best places to eat in the region of Munich. At this restaurant, you’ll enjoy a great atmosphere and a fantastic food and drinks menu. Ratskeller München is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,121 customers.

Alternatively, if you’re curious to try one of the locals’ favorites, check out Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,885 customers and guarantees you a nice dining experience to end your day.

When your taste buds call for something different, you may want to pay Kilians Irish Pub a visit instead. This restaurant is a top recommendation often mentioned by both travelers as well as locals. Kilians Irish Pub has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,188 customers.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Munich, Kilians Irish Pub. This famous place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,188 customers.

Another trendy bar is Nuernberger Bratwurst Gloeckl am Dom. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 3,035 customers.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 – Munich

Drive 235 km, 3 hours 19 min

Deutsches Museum
Victuals Market
Marienplatz
Nymphenburg Palace
LEGOLAND Germany

Wake up and see what day 5 of your great European road trip in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia has in store for you! You will be staying in Munich for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

In Munich, the extraordinary Deutsches Museum awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,593 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 1,250,000 visitors every year, the amazing Deutsches Museum is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Munich is the spectacular Victuals Market. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 54,246 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Marienplatz. This local wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,402 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Nymphenburg Palace is another attraction you might want to add to your Munich exploration itinerary. This museum is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 27,693 reviews.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Germany by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of Munich, immersing in local customs and meeting new friends.

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

Nuernberger Bratwurst Gloeckl am Dom offers great food and ambiance and is well-loved in the area.

Another top-rated restaurant worth trying in Munich is the popular Münchner Stubn. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,255 customers, this restaurant is an excellent dining option.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,475 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Pusser's, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,267 customers.

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

Day 6 – Munich and Vienna

Drive 438 km, 5 hours 7 min

Haus der Natur
Mozart's Birthplace
Mirabell Palace

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Salzburg and Vienna in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vienna, where you will stay for 4 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Munich, prepare for your next destination. Enjoy the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vienna, Austria. Your travel time is around 5 hours and 1 minute.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the region!

Vienna has something for every interest and travel budget.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Vienna. 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, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

We recommend you eat at a restaurant that locals enjoy, like the fantastic Bockshorn Irish Pub. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,158 customers.

Alternatively, check out the menu at die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. Considered one of the best restaurants in Vienna, it has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 668 customers.

If you’re curious about more of the best restaurants in Vienna, Lebenbauer is one to check out. Lebenbauer is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 517 customers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Bockshorn Irish Pub, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Bockshorn Irish Pub has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,158 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Needle Vinyl Bar, a crowd-favorite. Around 774 customers have rated their experience at Needle Vinyl Bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Grüner Kakadu belongs to the list of the best bars in Vienna, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 568 bar-goers.

Day 7 – Vienna

Drive 21 km, 57 min

Schönbrunn Palace Park
Tiergarten Schönbrunn
Schönbrunn Palace
Belvedere Palace Chapel

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Vienna. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the region for 3 nights more before hitting the road again.

Something that makes Vienna the perfect holiday destination is that the region offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Schönbrunn Palace Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 52,208 visitors.

The famous Schönbrunn Zoo is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Vienna's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 47,722 travelers have rated this incredible zoo and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Vienna is also home to the extraordinary Schönbrunn Palace, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 135,798 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Belvedere Palace. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 60,791 reviews, a visit to this wonderful museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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 Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

Naschmarkt, a local-favorite in Vienna, offers great food and ambiance. This well-loved restaurant in the region has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 43,957 customers.

Another top-rated restaurant worth trying in Vienna is the popular Figlmüller – Restaurant Bäckerstraße. An excellent dining option in the region, Figlmüller – Restaurant Bäckerstraße enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 15,227 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the exciting selection of food and drinks at Plachutta Wollzeile. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,398 customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Josef Cocktailbar. This famous bar in Vienna has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 508 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Flanagans. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Flanagans has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,132 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Crossfield's Australian Pub. 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,326 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!

Day 8 – Vienna

Drive 12 km, 46 min

St Stephen's Cathedral
Vienna State Opera
MuseumsQuartier
Heldenplatz
Hofburg Palace

On day 8, you will wake up in Vienna with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Vienna before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Vienna today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding St. Stephen's Cathedral. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 97,727 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Vienna State Opera. This incredible attraction holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 46,463 visitors.

According to travelers in Vienna, the extraordinary MuseumsQuartier Wien is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,213 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, Heldenplatz. Up to 18,026 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular museum, Hofburg. This attraction is rated an average 4.7 out of 5 stars among 43,996 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Austria. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Vienna itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful region.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Austria extra special!

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

An excellent option is Lugeck, which is a popular restaurant with an exciting menu. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,346 customers.

Another top-rated restaurant to consider is Reinthaler's Beisl. This restaurant is popular with locals as well as travelers and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,346 customers.

A favorite place to eat among many who have visited Vienna is Puerstner. This irresistible restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,511 customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Loos American Bar, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Loos American Bar has charmed many with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,538 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Kleinod, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Kleinod captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 863 merry-makers.

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!

Day 9 – Vienna

Drive 8 km, 30 min

Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel

Wake up and see what day 9 of your great European road trip in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia has in store for you! You will be staying in Vienna for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Vienna is the magnificent Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. Around 34,639 visitors have rated this excellent travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Prater on this leg of your adventure in Austria. This attraction is a well-known amusement park that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 107,807 travelers.

The remarkable Citypark is known to be one of the best places to visit in Vienna, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,804 traveler reviews is proof.

Elevate your experience in Vienna by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful region.

We recommend you eat at a restaurant that locals enjoy, like the fantastic Rinderwahn. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,045 customers.

Alternatively, check out the menu at Flanagans. Considered one of the best restaurants in Vienna, it has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,132 customers.

If you’re curious about more of the best restaurants in Vienna, Steirereck is one to check out. Steirereck is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,356 customers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Roberto American Bar, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Roberto American Bar has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 737 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Wienerin, a crowd-favorite. Around 863 customers have rated their experience at Wienerin an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Kruger’s American Bar belongs to the list of the best bars in Vienna, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 704 bar-goers.

As the night falls in Vienna, 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.

Day 10 – Vienna, Lednice, and Prague

Drive 372 km, 4 hours 20 min

Lednice Castle
Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lednice and Prague in Czechia. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Prague, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vienna and set your GPS to Prague, Czechia. 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 3 hours and 57 minutes.

Upon your arrival in Lednice you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this city and discover some of its most popular sights.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Lednice is the fantastic Castle Lednice, attracting around 256,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated local gem in the area, Castle Lednice has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 19,619 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,764 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Feel the freedom as you navigate your way from Lednice to Prague. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes without stops.

While in Prague, take the chance to join a popular tour to experience something one-of-a-kind during your getaway in Czechia. Check out all the tours Prague offers, and personalize your vacation package to your preferences for an amazing day in the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Prague’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, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

We recommend you go to one of the best restaurants in the city of Prague, Kantýna. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,694 customers.

U Kroka is another of the best restaurant options you can find in the city of Prague. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,515 customers.

Sia Restaurant, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Prague, is a place locals enjoy. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,997 customers.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Prague, Hemingway Bar. This famous place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,897 customers.

Another trendy bar is U Tellerů. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 517 customers.

Locals also recommend U Parlamentu. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 4,974 delighted customers.

Day 11 – Prague

Drive 14 km, 41 min

Prague Castle
St Vitus Cathedral
Charles Bridge
Powder Tower
Národní Muzeum (National Museum, Prague)

Day 11 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Prague. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Prague, including the outstanding Prague Castle. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,010 reviews and welcoming more than 512,800 visitors each year, this fascinating attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Prague is also home to the captivating St. Vitus Cathedral, a local church considered one of the highlights of the city. About 71,138 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Charles Bridge is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Prague. This extraordinary tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 142,536 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Prašná brána will inspire you as it does to more than 27,072 travelers every year. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,349 reviews.

Soak in Prague's rich culture at the fantastic Národní muzeum. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Prague is its overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,926 visitor reviews.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Prague in Czechia by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Prague’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Prague. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try V Zátiší, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city of Prague. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,190 customers.

Locals also recommend Lokál as one of the best restaurants in the city of Prague. Lokál is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,249 customers.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Anonymous Bar, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Anonymous Bar boasts an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,644 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Červený Jelen / Red Stag, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Červený Jelen / Red Stag has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,102 customers.

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!

Day 12 – Prague and Nuremberg

Drive 306 km, 3 hours 51 min

Old Town Square
Prague Astronomical Clock
Dancing House
Lennon Wall

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Prague in Czechia and Nuremberg in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nuremberg. Nuremberg will be your home for 1 night.

Old Town Square is a travelers’ favorite in Prague, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 89,722 visitors.

In Prague, don’t miss Prague Astronomical Clock, a great place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 52,905 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Prague off your list when you visit the wonderful Vyšehrad. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 41,933 travelers. Approximately 45,878 people visit this attraction each year.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Dancing House. This landmark and place of interest has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 45,527 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Lennon Wall awaits. This is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 37,612 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Prague, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Germany! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nuremberg may take around 3 hours and 21 minutes.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Nuremberg, Germany.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Nuremberg’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 12 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Nuremberg's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Nuremberg has them.

Featuring delightful food options and modern and market offering, Veles has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than Essigbrätlein. Featuring exquisite innovative and market cuisine, Essigbrätlein , a well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant, stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at etz. Countless patrons that sing its praises and its 2 Michelin star rating add to this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s prestige.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Finnegan's Harp Irish Pub, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,140 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Australian Bar & Kitchen, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,629 customers.

Cucina Italiana 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 1,223 customers.

Celebrate day 12 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 13 – Nuremberg and Zurich

Drive 434 km, 5 hours 9 min

Porsche Museum
Reformierte Kirche St Johann
Rhine Falls

Dive into day 13 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Stuttgart in Germany and Schaffhausen and Zurich in Switzerland, 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 Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Switzerland, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zurich. This drive usually takes around 5 hours, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Slow down and say goodbye to the road for a while, as Stuttgart welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences. Stretch your arms and legs and head out into the region.

A tour of Stuttgart is not complete without a visit to the famous Porsche Museum. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,592 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Zurich by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Zurich.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Zurich. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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 Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Zurich’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.

Locals enjoy dining at La Pasta, one of the most popular restaurants in Zurich. This restaurant serves good quality food and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,041 customers.

Alternatively, if you have an appetite for something different, eat at Yen's. Around 786 customers have given this fantastic restaurant an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Rio Bar, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Rio Bar has charmed many with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 992 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at The International Beer Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. The International Beer Bar captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 773 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Ebrietas Bar, another local party gem in Zurich. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 560 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Zurich 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!

Day 14 – Zurich - departure day

Zürich - Departure day

On day 14 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Zurich 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 Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated attraction in Zurich — Polybahn. About 590 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Zurich 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 Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia.

The International Beer Bar offers great food and ambiance and is well-loved in the area.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 837 customers, this restaurant is an excellent dining option.

The time has come to say farewell to Zurich for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 14-day European road trip in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia with fond memories. Safe travels!

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The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary

September 29, 2019 // by Follow Me Away // 3 Comments

Your Switzerland road trip will welcome you to the land of sweeping valleys, majestic mountains, and world-renowned chocolates. No wonder you have decided to come explore! Although the country of Switzerland is about half the size of Scotland in terms of landmass, it is just as rich in history and tradition. Also, it makes it so much easier to see all of the amazing stops we have planned out for you! Less time on the road means more time learning, experiencing, and exploring. Of course, if you are going on a road trip in Switzerland because you love driving through stunningly gorgeous landscapes, do not worry. There are plenty of fantastically windy roads in our Switzerland road trip itinerary.

Another major perk to doing a road trip in Switzerland is that the smaller country size makes your trip extremely customizable. Whether you have three days or three weeks, you will be able to see a good portion of the stops we have highlighted for you. You just might not be able to spend all day at them. Regardless of how much time you have, there are plenty of spectacular things to see and do. We have also included a good number of stops so that you can get a feel for what kind of experiences the country offers and decide where you want to spend your time. Naturally, we think they are all worthwhile. But if you can only visit a few, you will still get a Switzerland road trip you will think back to fondly for years to come.

This is one of the BEST ROAD TRIPS IN EUROPE so you are in for a real treat and a memorable experience!

Best Time to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries to visit, but it helps if you can come during the offseason. That being said, offseason is offseason for a reason. Winter in Switzerland is cold . Temperatures near or below freezing are what persuade crowds to wait to come during the warm summer months of July and August. However, you can come just before and after and have reasonable temperatures with a lot fewer people. We recommend coming between April and June, or September and October if you are able to tolerate spring and autumn temperatures. Fewer people and better prices are a great combination for the best Switzerland road trip possible.

Traveling in Switzerland

There are a few things you should know about traveling in Switzerland. As we mentioned above, this country is expensive, and transportation is no exception to that rule. However, there are some good tips and tricks you can use to make it a little less impactful to your wallet. You can use a Swiss Travel Pass for better deals on the railways and some of the experiences Switzerland offers. Or you can use a Swiss Half Fare Card for a 50% discount on the trains and cable cars. You do not need both of these. If you do not plan on using trains or cable cars at all, you do not need either. However, you will need a Freeway Vignette if you plan on driving. Read on for more information about all of these options, and to figure out will work out best for your Switzerland road trip.

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

Swiss Travel Pass

The Swiss Travel Pass is for those of you who are planning a good chunk of time for your Switzerland road trip. It offers unlimited traveling in Switzerland, including all the trains, buses, and boats your heart could desire. The Swiss Travel Pass also offers discounted or free admission to many Swiss excursions including museums and mountains. It is a great way to travel the country without having to worry about being able to drive everywhere. If you want to road trip in Switzerland because you want to see all the amazing sights, not because you are dreaming of hours spent driving through the countryside, the Swiss Travel Pass is a great option for you.

Swiss Half Fare Card

The Swiss Half Fare Card is exactly what it sounds like. Use this and it will provide you with half-off pretty much every kind of transportation in Switzerland. If you would like to drive part of the time, but would also like to ride some trains, buses, or boats, then we recommend this option to save you some money. You will still have to purchase individual tickets every time you ride a train, bus, or boat, but with the Swiss Half Fare Card, you will spend half the cash. If you do not want to drive at all, you are going to want to check out the Swiss Travel Pass above.

Swiss Motorway Vignette

Anyone, locals and tourists included, needs a Swiss Motorway Vignette to drive on motorways in Switzerland. If you choose to go this route, we highly recommend also using the Swiss Half Fare Card referenced above to save you money on trains, buses, and boats. It is unlikely that you are going to come to Switzerland and avoid all the spectacular mountain tops, boat trips, and cable cars. We do not blame you for wanting to drive part of the way on the fabulous Swiss motorways–Switzerland has some beautiful roadways. Just do not forget to get yourself a Swiss Motorway Vignette before you go driving off into the sunset.

Begin by Flying into the Zurich Airport

When you visit Switzerland, we recommend flying into Zurich Airport. It is the country’s largest airport in the country’s largest city. Zurich is our recommended starting place for our Switzerland road trip. This great city is near the top of Switzerland, allowing you to meander down the country to Geneva, our last stop. From there, you can either fly home out of the Geneva airport or take a relatively simple three and a half hour drive back to Zurich. We are telling you–one of the beautiful things about Switzerland is its size. You could end your road trip basically anywhere in the country and still drive only a few hours to end up at a major airport.

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 1: Zurich

Naturally, Zurich is our first stop on our Switzerland road trip itinerary. Fly there, and then spend some time there–hours or days, up to you. Zurich is an old, history-rich city just waiting for you to explore it. Especially for you art and history buffs out there, this city is a must-see. Want to check out a museum? You will have your pick from 50 of them. Enjoy the art gallery scene? Zurich has over 100 of them. We are telling you, you could spend an entire week indoor in this city. But it is Switzerland, and it also offers so many things to do outdoors! Check out our favorite Zurich experiences below.

Photo of Zurich, our first stop for your Switzerland road trip itinerary

Noteworthy Things to do in Zurich

Walk the lake zurich promenade.

Lake Zurich is a narrow, curving lake right next to the city which gives way to the Limmat River. Both of these bodies of water feature prominently in the walkways, architecture, and experiences available in Zurich. Where the city meets Lake Zurich, there is a lovely walking and recreation area called the Lake Zurich Promenade. Experience rejuvenating pathways and soul-stirring sunrises and sunsets. Bring your dinner to eat it alongside the lake, soak your feet in the water, and witness the creative authenticity of the street artists. The Lake Zurich Promenade is a wonderful place of opportunity and enjoyment.

Catch a Train to Uetliberg

If you purchased a Swiss Half Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass, use it to visit Uetliberg! Even if you do not have one of the Swiss travel discount cards, Uetliberg is worth a bit of a splurge to visit. From the peak of this mountain, you will be able to see all of Zurich. You will find yourself breathless, not from the walk, but from the majesty of this view. There is just something about the way that the city meets the water, which meets the alps off in the distance. The walk to the peak is very short and worth the effort. And if you find yourself a little peckish, check out the restaurant at the top. You can take the cable car back down or hike, whichever you prefer.

Take a Boat Ride

Once you fall in love with Lake Zurich and Limmat River, take the opportunity to get to know these beautiful bodies of water further by taking a boat ride. The Limmat River has multiple cruises that let you experience the city’s magnificent bridges from the water. You will be able to see the many different historic and famous parts of the city in a way you just cannot get from walking through it. Experience the lake via yacht or boat, and you will not regret it. The river and lake are part of what makes Zurich such a stop worthy location in Switzerland.

Visit the Museum of Art

If you do not have days to spend checking out all the museums and art galleries in Zurich, good news. You can get a taste of both in one place by visiting the Museum of Art. It boasts a wide variety of art pieces from multiple renowned Swiss artists, some of which go all the way back to the 13th century. They also feature modern art from this century. Furthermore, they also have works from famous artists world-wide, including van Gogh, Picasso, and Rembrandt. As far as museums go, this one is not overly expensive and really packs in a lot of quality. While you are there, do not hesitate to check out the lovely cafe and gift shop. Both have excellent offerings to really complete the experience.

Hike Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls are not actually in Zurich but are a short train ride away to Schaffhausen. We think they are worth taking a bit of a detour, or even making a day-trip out of them. Part of what makes them so spectacular is the sheer strength behind them. The Rhine Falls is actually the most powerful waterfall in not only Switzerland, but Europe too. You can walk to them, or you can take a boat trip to check them out. You may want to bring in your own food and water if you are trying to preserve some of your hard-earned money because food and beverage prices here are steep. It is busiest in the middle of the day, so if you like avoiding crowds come earlier or later.

Spend Some Time at Historic Churches

Zurich has a distinct religious history, which is represented by the many, many remarkable churches throughout the city. Grossmunster is a Romanesque church that began as a monastic church. With two classic church towers, this one is a nostalgic reminder of the beautiful architecture of times past. Charlemagne’s grandson Louis founded the Fraumunster church, and it is a sight to behold. Here you can see stonework dating back to the 9th century in the crypt. If you want to see a truly historic church dating all the way back to the 8th century, with a tower that was used to spot fires in the city, check out the St Peter church.

Where to Stay in Zurich

Affordable: Chez Paula Check Rates: booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Seehof Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Storchen Zurich Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 2: Lucerne

Lucerne is often referred to as one of the prettiest cities in the world, and for good reason. Historians speculate on when this city was actually established, but it could have been as early as the 9th century. As such, it has some stellar architecture. Also, it is in Switzerland, so it is classically beautiful with breathtaking waterways and mountain peaks. If you can only go to a few places during your Switzerland road trip, we highly recommend Lucerne. This city has everything that makes Switzerland a country that people keep coming back to even though it is so expensive. Lucerne is packed with everything you need to make your road trip in Switzerland a success.

Photo of Lucerne, a pretty stop in our Switzerland road trip

Noteworthy Things to do in Lucerne

Do the golden round trip.

Lucerne, in true Switzerland fashion, is built on the banks of Lake Lucerne. You can, of course, take all sorts of boat trips on the lake. If you want a bit of an adventure though, we recommend the Golden Round Trip . You start in a boat on the lake, then take a cogwheel railway to the summit of Mt Pilatus. Here there are several restaurants to choose from so that you can really enjoy the brilliant view without any hunger pangs. Descend via the cableway and gondolas, and then take a bus back to Lucerne. This is another excellent opportunity to use your Swiss Half Fare Card, which will cut the cost of this awesome trip in half.

Check Out the Dying Lion Monument

Switzerland is a very old country steeped in history and the Dying Lion Monument is a testament to this. During the French Revolution in 1792, around seven hundred Swiss Guards were massacred during and after the storming of the Tuileries Palace. The Dying Lion Monument honors them and commemorates their service. Carved out of the rock, this monument depicts a collapsed lion laying upon broken symbols of the French monarchy. A small pond in front of the relief brings another layer of reflection to this peaceful place. It is very famous, and to really feel the spirit of it we recommend going in the morning or evening, and avoiding the daytime crowds. Even if you go in the afternoon, the atmosphere tends to pervade through all of the people.

Visit the Chapel Bridge and Water Tower

Speaking of history, the Chapel Bridge is first referenced in written record in 1367, making it almost 700 years old. Unfortunately, a sudden midnight fire in 1993 destroyed most of the bridge. Perhaps even more of a loss than the historic bridge itself was the 85 historic paintings under the roof of the bridge, leaving only 35 remaining. A scarce 25 of those were restored, and the others were replaced when the bridge was restored. Fortunately, the bridge was restored and you can visit it once more during your road trip in Switzerland.

Next to the Chapel Bridge is the old Water Tower, which has its own fascinating history. One of the few structures that survived the fire in 1993, it has served as everything from a prison to a treasury vault. You are not able to go inside this building as it is currently in use as a club room, but it is worth a look from the outside.

Take a Cable Car to the Titlis Glacier

A short drive from Lucerne to Engelberg will give you the experience of a lifetime. The Titlis Glacier, found atop Titlis Mountain, is accessible via a rotating cable car from Engelberg. This experience is one for the books. The rotating cable car gives you panoramic landscapes from every angle and is worth the trip for that alone. Additionally, you will be able to explore a glacier cave, do a cliff walk, use an amazing suspension bridge, and visit cute shops and restaurants. Bring warm clothes and layers at whatever time of year you come, because this place is cold.

Hike Mt Pilatus and Mt Rigi

If you are not sold on the Golden Round Trip, we still recommend checking out the summit of Mt Pilatus. You can take the world’s steepest cogwheel train to the summit, or you can also hike to it within a good couple of hours. There is even a hotel at the top so that you can experience the beauty of the mountain at sunrise and sunset. Whenever you come, however long you stay, we think you will agree with us that the views here are simply unbeatable.

If hiking in Switzerland is a dream come true, you will also want to look into the trails of Mt Rigi. This mountain offers a multitude of trails at varying levels of difficulty so that you can choose how much of a challenge you want. From guided hikes to themed trails, Mt Rigi will not disappoint. Not to mention the views! If this sounds like your cup of tea, check out the Classic Rigi hiking trail, and the Rigi Panorama Path.

Where to Stay in Lucerne

Affordable: Hotel Balm Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Hotel des Balances Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Penthouse by Art Deco Hotel Montana Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 3: Lugano

One of our favorite things about Switzerland is that it is a true cultural melting pot. Across the country, you will find French, German, and Italian speaking regions. Lugano is in an Italian speaking region and has a wonderful Italian air about the city. The Italian aspect lends itself to the architecture and layout of the city. Looking at pictures, you could easily confuse it with Italy itself. We had to include it with our Switzerland road trip because it gives you a chance to squeeze another country in with your time in Switzerland! As with Zurich and Lucerne, Lugano is right next to a lake and has its own view of the alps in the distance.

Photo of Lugano, a slightly more Italian stop on our Switzerland Road Trip

Noteworthy Things to do in Lugano

Explore lake lugano.

Lake Lugano is a narrow, winding lake that greets the edges of the steep mountains along with the city. It is actually a glacial lake that was carved by a glacier making its way through here thousands of years ago. You can make use of a boat or ferry to explore the many varied stops around the lake, many of which have delightful restaurants and shops. There are many boat trips available in the area so that you can visit some of the places only accessible by water. People access this lake from both the Italian side of the lake and the Swiss side of the lake, and it offers a great opportunity to spend a little time in both countries.

Climb Monte San Salvatore

What kind of stop would this be if we did not include a little hike? Monte San Salvatore is a little mountain at just over 900 meters tall. Never fear though, it is an excellent opportunity to see the breathtaking city of Lugano from above. You can hike for an hour to reach the top, or you can take a cable car. So if hiking is not your thing, but truly epic scenery totally is, Monte San Salvatore is an excellent option. Lake Lugano is amazing from any angle, but from the summit of Monte San Salvatore it is truly awe-inspiring. There is something about the way the lake hugs the sides of the peaks that stretch straight from the lake’s depths that will call to your soul from this viewpoint.

Visit Parco Civico

For another soul-stirring experience, visit Parco Civico. We do not know if you are catching on yet, but the best experiences in Lugano are all about the lake. Parco Civico gives you a chance to experience Lake Lugano right from its banks. Adding to the experience, you can also view the stunning mountain peaks from here. Stroll the pretty walkways, sit in reverent contemplation on one of the park benches, or get in touch with the wilderness inside you in the woodland areas. This is another area where you will want to catch at least one sunrise or sunset. The changing horizon reflected on the water is an unforgettable experience.

Adventure in Gandria

You might not think it now, looking at the quaint waterside village of Gandria, but this little part of Lugano used to be home to some pretty illicit activities. Only a hundred years ago, it was home to a major smuggling operation. Today it is a pleasant, picturesque scene of the kind of hillside village dreams are made of. Houses line the slopes of the hill as it descends toward the lake, and boats line the waterways. It is also home to the Church of St Viglio, another popular stop during your time in Lugano. If you would like to learn more about this beautiful area and its colorful past, visit the Swiss Customs Museum directly across the lake.

Darken Some Church Doors

Lugano comes complete with its own set of historic churches. A couple of our favorites are the Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli, and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. The Chiesa di Santa Maria degli Angeli has a Renaissance fresco from 1529 that has been fantastically preserved, along with several other religious paintings from the same time period. The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo was also constructed during the 16th century, albeit over a Roman building from far earlier times. It is built with white limestone and marble that make it stand out and shine. This beautiful cathedral also offers views of the lake and mountains, making it a classic place to visit while in Lugano.

Where to Stay in Lugano

Affordable: Lugano Dante Center Swiss Quality Hotel Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Splendide Royal Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: The View Lugano Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 4: Zermatt

Zermatt is a resort city in Switzerland, best known for its views of and access to the Matterhorn. As home to one of the most famous mountain peaks in the world, let alone Switzerland, of course we had to make it a stop on our Switzerland road trip! This popular city’s activities revolve around the mountain and makes for a great experience for anyone looking to do a little mountaineering. Even if your only interaction with the mountain is to sip coffee (or tea or hot chocolate!) from your balcony, Zermatt is a fun place to spend some time. From the classic cabins to the snowy hillsides, you will not regret however much time you choose to dedicate to this place.

Photo of Zermatt, a great location for outdoor adventures during your Switzerland Road Trip

Noteworthy Things to do in Zermatt

More people visit Zermatt for the skiing than the Matterhorn, which makes sense since the Matterhorn is a little deadly. Skiing is why Zermatt has become such a popular resort town. While skiing is most accessible November through April, there are often areas where you can ski in the warmer months of the year as well. Zermatt is at a very high altitude, with multiple glaciers, and things stay pretty cold here year-round. When you have had your fill of skiing, check out some of the popular restaurants located all over this mountainous area.

Experience the Matterhorn

For those of you who may be unaware, the Matterhorn is a famous mountain with a seriously challenging ascent. We mean it when we say seriously challenging . Do not attempt to climb this mountain if you are not an expert. That does not mean you cannot still experience it though! There are viewpoints all over the place where you can view the famous peak from afar, where you will not die from trying to climb it. Yes, people have died trying to hike this mountain. You can even visit the Mountaineers’ Cemetery where many of the people who have perished climbing the Matterhorn are buried. We recommend checking out the Klein Matterhorn via aerial tramway, where you will be able to experience the mountain safely.

Visit Gornergrat Station

Zermatt boasts the highest open-air rack railway in Europe, and you can use it to visit Gornergrat Station. The railway was built more than a thousand years ago and remains a truly great feat of brilliant engineering. When you reach the station you will be able to view the Matterhorn, as well as the Dufourspitze, another famous Swiss mountain. Switzerland has no end of amazing views accessible throughout the country, but we really question if you can find one greater than those of Gornergrat Station. The whole experience, from the railway to the station, is one that you will never forget.

Ride a Cable Car

Being the skiing resort town that it is, Zermatt has some serious cable cars that are in use year-round. Whether you use them in the winter for skiing, or in the summer for hiking, the cable cars here offer unique views of the mountains and valleys in this area. Honestly, we would ride the cable cars just for the ride and views alone. There is just something about riding in a cable car high above the world while taking in some of the most spectacular views in Switzerland. We highly recommend checking them out if you visit Zermatt.

Check Out Sunnegga

Sunnegga is another great place for experiencing the awesomeness of the Matterhorn safely. Accessed via the Zermatt-Sunnegga funicular, it offers a stunning panoramic view of the Matterhorn. Another beautiful attraction is Leisee Lake. It is popular with solo travelers and families alike for its pristine beach. You can swim, barbecue, and soak in the ambiance of this gorgeous place. Even in the winter, it offers pristine views and snowshoe trails. Sunnegga is one of our favorite ways to experience the Matterhorn.

Where to Stay in Zermatt

Affordable: Best Western Hotel Butterfly Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Grand Hotel Zermatterhof Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Le Mirabeau Hotel & Spa Check Rates: booking.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 5: Interlaken

All the best things about Switzerland are in full force in Interlaken, making it one of our top stops for your Switzerland road trip. This little town is located between two lakes and has easy access to mountains, forests, and all kinds of hiking and skiing. Interlaken has the ability to meet and exceed all of your Switzerland expectations. It is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. If Zurich is the city where you could spend a week inside, Interlaken is the place where you could spend a week outside. Honestly, you could probably spend several weeks outside and still never run out of exciting adventures to engage in.

Photo of Interlaken, one of our favorite stops in our Switzerland road trip itinerary

Noteworthy Things to do in Interlaken

Do all the things.

What exactly are all of the things? Paragliding, speedboating, river rafting, mountain biking, hiking, skiing, and skydiving , to name a few. Interlaken is commonly referred to as an adventure capital, and the people who call it this know what they are talking about. You can find guides and tours for pretty much anything you can imagine, or you can go solo. Interlaken is not nearly as big as some of the cities in this Switzerland road trip, but it is absolutely surrounded by the wild outside in all the best ways. Whatever your level of physical fitness, Interlaken offers a way for you to get outdoors and enjoy it.

Check out Jungfraujoch

The Jungfraujoch railway is part of a dream that began in 1860 to make a railway on Jungfrau Mountain. Construction did not actually begin until 1896, and the railway was not inaugurated until 1912. This railway continued to be developed through the 20th century up through 1996. All of this history to tell you that some of the absolute best things are a long time coming. Jungfraujoch takes you to the highest railway station in Europe. You are greeted at the top station by a wintery world of ice and wonder, home to the Aletsch Glacier. Take it a step further by going even higher up from the station to the Sphinx Observatory.

Photo of Jungfraujoch Railway, a fun excursion for your Switzerland road trip.

Experience the Schynige Platte Railway

It hardly seems fair that one little Swiss town can be home to two of the most epic railways in the world, but nevertheless it is true. Giving the Jungfraujoch a run for its money, the Schynige Platt Railway is also one of the highest railways in Switzerland! This railway took a lot less time to come to fruition, opening in 1893. It has been running for 126 years! You will love the Schynige Platte Railway for many reasons. Chief among them are the mountain views that will steal your heart and the Alpine garden at the top that will charm your imagination. This is one of those experiences that you will think back to a long time after.

Explore Unterseen

Okay, so technically Unterseen is its own town, and not totally part of Interlaken. But it is so close that it is almost the same town, and we are counting it! You should visit Unterseen during your road trip in Switzerland because we said so. Just kidding! You should visit Unterseen because it is awesome! It is a medieval town packed with historic buildings and character. Even more tantalizing is the Weissenau Nature Reserve, which lies right next to Unterseen. This beautiful wetland is home to the ruins of Weissenau Castle, a castle from the 1200s. As if this is not reason enough to visit Unterseen, this whimsical place has yet to be discovered by mainstream tourism and is much less busy than the main town of Interlaken. It is the perfect place to get some alone time in the wilderness.

Visit St Beatus Caves

We are telling you, Interlaken has everything. Off to the side of one of the neighboring lakes, Lake Thun, exists St Beatus Caves. According to local legend, a dragon used to live in these caves until the Irish monk Beatus came along in the 500s BC, kicked the dragon out, and made the place his own. 1500 years later, all that is left is a cave system that will blow your mind. It comes complete with its own waterfall, hiking path, restaurant, and museum. You can get here by car or bus. We recommend coming earlier or later in the day, as this is a popular tourist destination and the narrow walkways can get a little packed.

Where to Stay in Interlaken

Affordable: Hotel Tell Check Rates: booking.com

Mid-Range: Villa Heimgarten Check Rates: booking.com

Upscale: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 6: Lauterbrunnen

If Interlaken is Switzerland’s adventure capital, Lauterbrunnen is Switzerland’s fairytale capital. We are basing this opinion strictly on looks, but check out the picture below. Lauterbrunnen is beautiful in the most whimsical, dreamy, and lovely way. From the way the valley naturally draws your gaze toward the old church steeple, to the casual waterfall just doing its thing on the side, this place is stunning . Fun fact: Lauterbrunnen actually has 72 waterfalls. There is no typo there. 72. Waterfalls. Seriously, this place practically oozes magic. If ever there was a sprite and fairy capital, it would be here. Add this stop to your Switzerland road trip for a chance to truly step outside the norm.

Photo of Lauterbrunnen, one of the most beautiful places you can visit during your Switzerland road trip

Noteworthy Things to do in Lauterbrunnen

Check out some waterfalls.

You saw this one coming, right? When in Lauterbrunnen, you check out the waterfalls. We mean, honestly, you cannot really help it when they are literally everywhere, so just plan on it. And while you are at it, we especially recommend taking some time to see Trummelbach Falls. This natural wonder is made of ten waterfalls cascading down into the valley. It is more of a walk than a hike to go see them, making it almost criminal not to. When nature makes it this easy to see something amazing, you just do it. Another noteworthy waterfall in Lauterbrunnen is Stabbauch Falls, the prominent waterfall you see when you first see the town.

Spend Some Time at the Jungfraujoch Observation Area

You can get to Jungfraujoch through Lauterbrunnen too, not just through Interlaken! This just might be one of the most expensive things you do while in Switzerland (save some serious money on this one with a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card!), but we are telling you, this view is unbeatable. Switzerland has a lot of unbeatable views, we know. We have already told you about several. But folks… The Jungfraujoch Observation Area is extraordinary. Not only that, but there are other attractions in this popular spot. A couple of our favorites are the Ice Palace and the Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven.

Photo from Jungfraujoch Observation Area, a great place to visit during your Switzerland road trip

Take a Train up to Murren

If you like a little seclusion with your waterfalls, you will want to take the train to Murren. It is a very small village just shy of 400 residents, built on the plateau above Lauterbrunnen. You cannot drive here, but once you get here by train you will not miss having a vehicle. This little village is the gateway to several hikes, paths, and walking trails. There are also more trains and cable cars that go on from here to even more viewpoints and scenic trails. Go to Lauterbrunnen to view this beautiful valley from below, and to Murren to see it from above.

Visit the Observation Deck

Okay, so technically the observation deck in question is also in Murren, but it is fantastic enough to warrant its own section. This viewpoint on the edge of the plateau gives an excellent view of the valley below and the pretty village of Lauterbrunnen. As with many other popular places on this list, we recommend getting your views in earlier in the day so that you can miss some of the crowds. The word is out that the observation deck in Murren is simply spectacular, but it is still worth taking the time to go see. You just might want to go see it earlier rather than later.

Hike to Gimmelwald

Like Murren, Gimmelwald is another traffic-free village accessible by train. It has half as many people as Murren and is just as idyllic. Something entirely unique to Gimmelwald is the Honesty Shop. Imagine a store full of souvenirs, treats, and local artwork. Now take out the cash registers, the cashiers, and the part where anyone is there to hold you accountable. The stuff is not free–everything has a price on it. But you pay by putting money in the honesty box. That is it. Is it crazy, or is it genius? We think it is innovative, and a nice way to put some trust back in the world.

Where to Stay in Lauterbrunnen

Affordable: Hotel Steinbock Check Rates: booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Silberhorn Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Hotel Staubbach Check Rates: booking.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 7: Bern

Welcome to the capital of Switzerland! You cannot make a Switzerland road trip itinerary without making Bern one of the stops along the way. We are not saying you have to stop here (you do the road trip you want to do!), but it is definitely worth considering. This amazing city dates back to the 12th century, and as such, is packed with Swiss history. It is littered with thought-provoking architecture, fountains from the 1500s, and gardens to draw you outside. Bern is a great place to do something a little different, but still entirely Swiss during your road trip in Switzerland.

Noteworthy Things to do in Bern

Check out the clock tower.

Zytglogge is the famous clock tower of Bern. It is famous because of its moving puppets that make an appearance every hour. It is located in Bern’s Old Town, which is listed as its own attraction further down. Zytglogge is a tribute to a different time when Switzerland was renowned for its clockmaking. This clock tower displays everything wonderful and whimsical about the clockmaking of centuries past. In fact, it is 800 years old, and still functioning just as well now as it did then thanks to the extensive care it has been given over the years. Check it out by yourself or take a tour to learn all there is to learn. Either way, definitely consider spending some time here.

Relax in Rosengarten

One of the things we love about Switzerland is how integrated with nature nearly everything is. Rosengarten is no different. This serene park began as a cemetery and has only been a public place for the last century. Take advantage of the opportunity to picnic here, or visit the restaurant inside the park. Spend some time in quiet reflection and peaceful contemplation. Rosengarten promises a sigh of relief and a breath of fresh air for those who choose to spend some of their precious moments in Switzerland here. Abide by the pond, explore the over 400 species of flowers, and just breathe in the quiet ambiance of the place.

Photo of a peaceful place to visit during your Switzerland road trip, Rosengarten

Visit the Cathedral

Bern’s famous cathedral is known by many names. The Berner Munster, the Bern Cathedral, the Cathedral of St. Vincent. It was built over the course of 470 years between 1421 and 1893. You will be greeted by sculptures, paintings, architecture, and the history that has been steeped into this very old building. Because of the long, drawn-out time span during which it was built, Bern’s cathedral also has a wide variety of art from the centuries. Just as impressive is the Baroque Organ from the early 18th century. The cathedral’s terrace, with all its trees and views, is almost as impressive as the cathedral itself.

Spend Some Time in the Old Town

Bern’s historic center comes complete with its very own covered shopping area. Whether there is rain or sun, this is a fun area to spend some time even if you do not want to spend some money. Window shopping is perfectly acceptable! Even if shopping is not your thing, Bern’s old town is still worth checking out. It is built on a cliff, right next to the Aare River. Cobbled streets will lead you through the historic streets to restaurants, bookstores, and picturesque sitting areas.

Where to Stay in Bern

Affordable: Hotel Savoy Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Jardin Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Hotel Schweizerhof Bern Check Rates: b oo king.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 8: Montreux

For most of the year, Montreux is a sleepy little town near Geneva, but for two weeks it becomes a culture center when the Jazz Festival comes to town. Whether your road trip in Switzerland happens during the festival or not, Montreux is a great addition to your Switzerland itinerary. One of the lesser-known, but greatly appreciated benefits of Montreux is the microclimate. Because of its unique location and proximity to Lake Geneva, this town has a shorter winter and warmer temperatures all year round. Montreux is colloquially referred to as the Swiss Riviera because of its great weather and festival vibes.

Noteworthy Things to do in Montreux

Take the chocolate train.

Honestly, we cannot think of anything more Swiss than the Chocolate Train. If it just had a medieval, classic Swiss-made clock somewhere, it would be perfect! Even so, the Chocolate Train is pretty spectacular. Now, you can do this tour on your own and certainly do not have to take the train for this one if you want to save some money. However you do it though, if you like chocolate and cheese this experience is for you! Begin in Montreux, go to Gruyeres to visit the cheese factory, and then make your way from there to the Nestle Factory.

Experience the Jazz Festival

Montreux’s Jazz Festival is an experience like few others. Expect to have to elbow your way in to experience it, because there will be crowds! It used to be held in a Casino, but that burned down in 1971. That did not stop anyone though, and the Jazz Festival is very much alive and well today. During the 70s it was strictly a Jazz Festival but has evolved over the last few decades to be much more comprehensive. Although the exact dates change every year, you can expect it to happen sometime in the first couple of weeks of July.

Explore the Lantern Trail

Winter in Montreux may not have the Jazz Festival, but it does have the lantern trail of Les Pleiades. A quick train ride will take you from Montreux to the Les Pleiades train station. There you will find a trail that has been painstakingly lit by lanterns. They provide an otherworldly glow to guide you through the landscape. Snowshoes are requisite and serve to further build the clandestine experience. A Switzerland road trip offers so many opportunities to experience nature in unique and unorthodox ways, and we highly recommend this one.

Check Out Rochers de Naye

By now you have surely caught on to the pattern of coming to a place just to take a train to another place, right? That is why we told you about the Swiss Travel Pass and the Half Fare Card in the beginning. You do not have to take trains anywhere while you are in Switzerland, but you will miss out on a lot of amazing experiences. Rochers de Naye continues the pattern of visiting one place to get to another. When you are ready to take a bit of a break from Montreux, but not leave completely, take the train to Rochers de Naye. It is one of the Swiss Alps mountains, and it gives you stunning views of Lake Geneva below.

Photo of a sight you can see during your Switzerland road trip, Rochers de Naye

Visit Glacier 3000

Speaking of excellent day-trips from Montreux, might we suggest Glacier 3000? As far as pure, unadulterated awesomeness goes, Glacier 3000 takes the cake. We have mentioned a couple of glaciers so far in this itinerary, but Glacier 3000 is an entirely new experience. This adventure begins much like most others in Switzerland: you take a cable car. But then–then, you can ride the Alpine Coaster, ride a bus on the glacier, traverse the world’s first suspension bridge, and eat at a restaurant on top of the world. And honestly, for Switzerland, this one is not even that terribly expensive. It is a win all the way around.

Where to Stay Near Montreux

Affordable: Alpe Fleurie Hotel & Restaurant Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Le Mirador Resort & Spa Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Grand Hotel du Lac Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 9: Nendaz

Nendaz is popular during the winter months for its excellent skiing. If you are doing a summer Switzerland road trip though, Nendaz still promises to impress. This place has its own summer festivals, easy access to outdoor adventures, and views just as mindblowing as any other Swiss city. And, because it is better known for its winter skiing, the summer offers more of a relaxed experience than some of the other Switzerland cities and towns we have listed.

Photo of Nendaz, a great place to stop at during your road trip in Switzerland

Noteworthy Things to do in Nendaz

Take a cable car to tracouet.

Every Swiss town, no matter how big or small, has its own mountain. And every mountain, no matter how big or small, has its own cable car or railway. Tracouet is Nendaz’s mountain. One of the lovely things about Switzerland is the country both recognizes the splendor of its mountains and also makes it easy to experience them, hence the abundance of cable cars and trains. Take part in a classic Switzerland landscape via the traditional cable car, and enjoy Tracouet.

Check Out the Summer Alphorn Festival

Have you seen or heard a traditional Swiss Alphorn? If not, definitely consider visiting Nendaz during the annual Swiss Alphorn Festival. Quite different than the Jazz Festival in Montreux, Nendaz’s Summer Alphorn Festival is a work of pure Swiss tradition and history. The alphorn is a very long horn, spanning several feet, traditionally made of wood. Originally it was used as a means of communication, but over time has come to be used for music instead. The Summer Alphorn Festival celebrates this instrument and its important place in Swiss history and tradition.

Swim in the Public Pool

If you did a double-take at that title, you are not alone. Public pools and illustrious foreign road trips do not often go hand in hand. However, in Nendaz, Switzerland, they most certainly do. Now, it is only open during mid-June through August, so this is a limited-time opportunity. However, if you can swing it, you have got to check this mountain pool out. Swim with clear views of the valley and mountains–this is truly an experience unlike many others.

Go Mountain Biking and Hiking

You can actually do this one after you take the cable car up Tracouet! At the top of Nendaz’s mountain lies a spectacular trail network that you can walk, hike, or bike to your heart’s content. People from all over the world come here to experience the trails for themselves, and for good reason. They are beautiful in the winter when people come to ski, and just as extraordinary in the summer when the snow has left behind lush green meadows. Spend as much or as little energy here as you want. Nendaz offers ways to experience nature whatever your level of physical fitness.

Visit the Spa

Nendaz is a resort town, and it takes that identity seriously. You will definitely be able to tell when you visit the Spa des Bisses in the 4 Vallees Hotel. Not only is this hotel one of our recommended places to stay listed below, but it is a great place to get some serious relaxation in. Even if you do not stay in the hotel, we still recommend checking out the spa. It offers all kinds of luxurious relaxation experiences and promises not to disappoint.

Where to Stay in and Near Nendaz

Affordable: Martigny Boutique-Hotel Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Nendaz 4 Vallees & Spa Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: W Verbier Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Switzerland Road Trip Stop 10: Geneva

Geneva is a city of beauty, refinement, and culture. It is a wonderful place to end your Switzerland road trip. While you are here, take a moment to sit on the longest wooden bench in the world, located in the Old Town. Come during August for the sunrise festival, or in spring to witness the budding of the city’s famous chestnut tree that announces the change in season. Whenever you come, whatever you choose to spend your time on, Geneva will leave you with happy memories and a lasting fondness for Switzerland.

Photo of Geneva, an excellent place to end your Switzerland road trip.

Noteworthy Things to do in Geneva

Visit the cathedral of st. pierre.

St Pierre Cathedral is a historic cathedral that looks more like the Parthenon than a church. This is not surprising, given its beginning as a Roman Catholic Cathedral. You might be surprised to know that the Roman facade was not originally part of this church though, but rather added in the 1700s. This church has gone through several transitions over the centuries, having also become a Reformed Protestant Church during the Reformation, and with many additions built along the way. Inside you will find the classic stunning architecture and decoration that continues to make cathedrals popular tourist destinations after hundred of years.

Go to the Headquarter of the United Nations

As we mentioned before, Switzerland is a major melting pot of several different countries. There are separate regions that speak different languages and draw from a variety of cultures. It must have felt like a natural decision back in the 1930s to make Geneva the headquarters of the League of Nations. Now it is the European headquarters, with another in New York. You can visit the Palais des Nations during your stay in Geneva, which has been home to the European headquarters since 1966. Take a guided tour, or visit on your own. Many parts of this historic building are open to the public and available for your perusal.

Photo of UN Headquarters, a great place to visit during your Switzerland road trip.

Take a Boat Ride on Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is the largest lake in Switzerland and in Central Europe. It is also called Lac Leman. Cities and villages line its banks because people just cannot get enough of this paradisical place. For those of us who can only visit, not live here, rest assured that there are plenty of ways to get your fill of the lake. Whether you prefer the more structured boat tours or would rather take a ferry tour so you can choose your own destinations, Lake Geneva is yours to explore.

Experience the Chocolate Flavours Tour

If you are going to do any chocolate experience during your road trip in Switzerland, we highly recommend the Chocolate Flavors Tour . Honestly, we drool a little just thinking about it. It is a walking tour that takes you to five different chocolate factories and patisseries over the course of three hours. It even includes a boat ride! Learn about chocolate and how it is made, eat a lot of chocolate, be one with the chocolate… We know chocolate is not everyone’s thing, but if it is you have got to do the Chocolate Flavors Tour.

Witness Jet D’Eau

The Jet D’Eau is an impressive water fountain in Lake Geneva that shoots straight up into the sky. It was originally designed as a way to relieve water pressure from a hydraulic pumping station but was so spectacular that it soon became its own attraction. Although it was built on the Rhine river, when it became so popular it was moved to Lake Geneva so that it was more easily accessible. The Jet D’Eau will not take too much of your time and is a fun feat of engineering and luck that is easy to witness.

Where to Stay in Geneva

Affordable: Base Nyon Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Mid-Range: Hotel d’Angleterre Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

Upscale: Hotel Beau Rivage Geneva Check Rates: booking.com | hotels.com

End by Flying out of Geneva or Zurich

Geneva Airport, otherwise known as Cointrin Airport, is a stellar international airport that is definitely equipped to see you safely home. If you want the convenience of being able to fly directly home after your Switzerland road trip, we recommend Geneva. However, flying out of Zurich offers the ability to do a round trip flight in and out of Zurich. And, Zurich is only a little under three hours away from Geneva. So if you do not mind traveling back, that is definitely an option. Safe travels!

We hope that our Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary has been helpful in planning your adventures in Switzerland! There are so many great places to see and experience. You are going to have a great time! Let us know if you visit any of the stops we have listed, and which one was your favorite. We look forward to hearing about your road trip!

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Reader Interactions

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Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes

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The Top Six Germany Road Trips

Germany is an incredible country in which to road trip. With landscapes ranging from the dramatic to gentle, medieval towns alongside cities full of cutting-edge architecture, fairytale castles, and amazing roads, you’ll enjoy the road trip of a lifetime as you explore this often overlooked country.

From the lively attractions of Berlin to historic medieval cities and the mighty Alps to the starkly beautiful northern coast, Germany is a seriously great country for road tripping.

Our Germany road trip planner will help you decide whether you want drama, fairytale castles, towns, vineyards, or something a bit different. Use our detailed guide and travel tips to find our pick of the best German road trip routes, itineraries, and places to see along the way.

Getting to Germany

Germany is an easily accessible country from the UK and most of Europe, with an excellent network of autobahns to deliver you right where you want to be. Plan getting to Germany as part of your trip and could enjoy an epic road trip to Germany, followed by one in the country itself!

For those flying in, the well-located airports of Frankfurt, Munich, and Hamburg are ideal for car rental, or even hiring a VW campervan or motorhome from Motorhome Republic , and starting your German road trip. We recommend booking your flights through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

RELATED POST: Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

Fly into the well-located international airports of Frankfurt , Munich , and Hamburg , ideal starting points for your German road trip. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Germany? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a roadtrip in Germany.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Germany. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find campsites and places to stay along the route, and park for the night on a mountain pass, flower filled meadow of with a glorious view of the sea.

Best Time to Visit Germany

The German climate is fairly typical of central European weather.

The high season is considered to be between April to August when the weather is generally warm. If you want to increase your chances of a dry holiday without rain, roadtrip in Germany between July and September. Temperatures during this period fluctuate between 68°F/20°C to 86°F/30°C.

The colder low-season German weather starts in November and lasts until late March or early April. Snow is common across the country, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. By late March, snow turns to rain, a sure sign that spring is on the way!

That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t choose to take a German road trip in winter. As a European winter destination , Germany packs a real punch with fantastic Christmas markets, winter activities in Bavaria, and everywhere dusted in snow.

Is this your first time visiting Germany? Get all the information you need in our Germany Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

The Mosel Valley

Explored by James from The Travel Scribes

Koblenz – Cochem – Beilstein – Zell am Mosel – Traben Trarbach – Trier

Distance 172km
Duration 5-7 days
Drive Time 2 hours

A beautiful river snaking through it, soaring medieval castles dotted across it, and almost vertical vineyards nestled on its hills. It’s the picturesque Mosel (or Moselle) Valley, and this is one of the best roads in Germany for wine lovers!

Punctuated by the small but beautiful Mosel river, the valley essentially stretches from the small city of Koblenz, a fairy-tale German town, to Trier along the water’s edge.

This breathtaking valley is best explored by taking a least a week, the pinnacle of slow travel as you hop from one riverside town to the next.

Kick off your west Germany road trip in Koblenz, where the mouth of the Mosel meets the Rhine, to walk along the ancient Roman walls or just amble through the Altstadt (old town), before heading to visit the first traditional town of Cochem .

On the way there, avid Instagrammers and history buffs should definitely make a turn at Burg Eltz, one of the most spectacular castles and hidden gems in Germany , to take the requisite snap. Once in Cochem, you’ll slow the pace.

You can marvel at the unique vineyards (a signature of the entire Mosel road trip), where the vines crawl up the hillside at 90-degree angles. If you go in harvest time, you’ll see the workers strapped into harnesses with spiked boots just to be able to pick the ripe grapes.

Cochem also boasts one of Germany’s legendary castles looming above it, plus it’s the best place to just take a walk along the promenade, stopping in at one of the riverfront cafes for a plate of zwiebelkuchen (onion cake) and a sparkling glass of federweisser , a traditional fizzy grape drink.

Your next few nights should definitely see you stay over in one of the many lovely towns sprinkled along the river: Beilstein for the Burg Metternich castle, a climb up the hill (and more traditional German food) in Zell am Mosel and our favorite stop on the entire itinerary, Traben Trarbach.

This gorgeous little town used to be two villages, Traben and Trarbach, on opposite sides of the river, which were eventually united with the construction of a short bridge.

Before you hit your final destination of Trier, stay overnight in Bernkastel-Kues, a spa town peppered with wood-timbered houses, many a hot spring, and the ruins of the Landshut Castle.

Before you know it, your German road trip is at an end, as it culminates in the beguiling town of Trier. An old Roman city with landmarks like the Porta Nigra black gate, an old-school amphitheater, the Roman baths, and a towering cathedral, just to name a few.

It’s here that you should raise a(nother) glass of perfectly poured Riesling in celebration of the Mosel valley, one of the best road trips in Germany.

Where to Stay

Cochem ⇒ Hotel Villa Vinum for its highly rated service, perfect riverside location, and quirky decor.

Traben Trarbach ⇒ The Goldene Traube for its traditional exterior and modern interior, rooftop terrace, and fabulous breakfast buffet!

Trier ⇒ Vienna House Easy for its excellent location close to the old town, modern and funky style, and private parking garage.

Cochem Castle one of the best places to visit Germany

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Germany. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

The German Fairy Tale Road

Frankfurt – steinau – marburg – kassel – gottingen – hamelin – bremen.

Distance 660km
Duration 7 days
Drive Time 10 hours

Map of the Fairy Tale Road and some of the best places to visit in Germany

This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Fairy Tale route officially starts in the pretty town of Steinau an der Strasse where the Brothers Grimm lived until they were aged twelve.

The setting is straight out of their own fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted fairy tale castle of Schloss Steinau which overlooks the whole town. Visit the Brüder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.

Take the back roads to Marburg and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.

Lively bars and restaurants line the Marktplatz and the narrow streets surrounding it, making this a great location for an overnight stop.

From Marburg, head to Kassel, where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon.

There is very little left of historic Kassel but there are two worthwhile attractions to visit; the Brüder Grimm Museum, and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.

Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the little goose girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world. It is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck, but maybe post-virus this practice will change!

Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.

The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town center every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle.

The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing.

Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th century gothic cathedral.

Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, “The Town Musicians of Bremen.”

If you have time, extend your trip and head to the modern and progressive port city of Hamburg. Explore the historic districts, edgy culture, and extraordinary commercial past with our one day Hamburg itinerary.

RELATED POST: Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road

Where To Stay

Frankfurt ⇒ Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch for its proximity to the airport and city center, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.

Marburg ⇒ The Vila Vita Rosenpark for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.

Bremen ⇒ Atlantic Grand Hotel for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.

Marburg on the Fairy Tale Road Trip in Germany

Germany Travel Ideas

Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Motorhoming in Germany: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights

One Day Munich Itinerary + Map, Tips & Guide

18 Magical Castles in Germany to Add to Your Bucket List

Winter Destinations Europe: 23 Amazing Wintry Places

Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

Berlin in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Autumn in Europe: 23 Stunning Destinations for Fall

The Best Campsites in Europe – For Campers, By Campers

24 Hours in Hamburg – Itinerary, Map & Travel Tips

Visit Zugspitze Germany – Find Out How!

Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

Beautiful Cities in Germany: 27 Picturesque Cities to Visit

The romantic road.

Explored by Carolyn from Holidays to Europe

Wurzburg – Weikersheim – Rothenberg – Dinkelsbühl – Augsburg – Fussen

Distance 340km
Drive Time 5 hours

One of the best southern Germany road trips is along the scenic route known as the Romantic Road or Romantische Strasse. This Bavaria road trip stretches for 340km from Wurzburg to Fussen, the route has many highlights and passes through some of Germany’s prettiest landscapes and most fairy tale towns and villages.

Whilst you could travel this entire Bavaria itinerary in one or two days, to make the most of your Romantic Road drive , I suggest you allow at least 5 days in Bavaria, which will give you the chance to stop and explore many of the 29 towns along the route, of which the best six are listed above.

The first stop on Germany’s Romantic Road is Wurzburg, an attractive city that was almost totally destroyed in WW2. Highlights include the Marienberg Fortress, Wurzburg Cathedral, the Old Main Bridge (which crosses the River Main), and the stunning UNESCO World Heritage listed Wurzburg Residence. Wurzburg and the Franconia region are also well-known for their wines.

You’ll see vines planted in front of the Marienberg Fortress and in the surrounding countryside, so be sure to sample the local drop.

After a couple of days in Wurzburg, head south to the fairytale town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the most beautiful places in Germany.

I recommend you stop in the charming town of Weikersheim en route, there’s a beautiful castle you can visit and a small but very pretty old town. In Rothenburg, you’ll see why visitors flock here from all over the world.

The brightly painted timbered houses that line the cobbled streets and the medieval city walls with their watchtowers, ooze romanticism and entice people on day trips from all over southern Germany.

Other highlights include St. Jacob’s Cathedral, the castle gardens, the views from the tower of City Hall and the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas Store and the German Christmas Museum.

With numerous nearby towns and villages worth a visit, too, you could easily fill three days in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Next, drive further south to your final stop at Fussen.

You’ll want to stop at Wies to visit the Wieskirche, a small baroque church with an impressive interior that is UNESCO listed.

In Fussen, explore the old town and head to Schwangau to visit Germany’s most famous schloss , Neuschwanstein Castle, built by mad King Ludwig. If you have a few extra days, enjoy some city life by heading to Munich, where you’ll find fantastic Bavarian culture and a lively social scene.

Base yourself here for a few days and enjoy some of the day trips from Munich on offer, to experience the best of the surrounding landscapes and attractions. We think this could well be the best road trip in Germany.

RELATED POST: Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Wurzburg ⇒ Hotel Grüner Baum for its great location, traditional Franconian decor, and outstanding breakfast.

Rothenburg ⇒ Hotel Herrnschloesschen for its gorgeous and unique decor, fantastic restaurant, and beautiful garden.

Fussen ⇒ Hotel Das Rübezahl for a real treat. This luxury hotel has amazing views across the Alps and both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles. There is also a fantastic spa and restaurant, making this the perfect hotel to end your German road trip.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!

The Castle Circuit

Explored by Becki from Meet Me in Departures

Koln – Frankfurt – Mespellbrunn Castle – Stuttgart – Bad Wildbad – Heidelberg – Koblenz – Eltz Castle – Rheinstein Castle – Cochem Castle – Köln

Distance 950km
Duration 3-5 days
Drive Time 13 hours

This south Germany itinerary covers a whole mix of destinations in a fabulous circuit, visiting some of Germany’s best castles on the route. Starting and finishing in the graceful city of Cologne (Koln in Germany) this road trip covers the southwest of the country.

It takes you south as far as Stuttgart, before circling back north towards the Mosel Valley. To make the most out of this road trip, I suggest three to four days, which will give you time to enjoy the castles as well as the wine in the Rhine region; perfect for a long weekend.

This part of the country is one of the best places to visit in Germany and you’ll get to see some of Germany’s prettiest castles, the stunning and verdant forests, the Rhine river, as well as a number of picturesque cobbled towns. Stay off the autobahns for the best driving, through beautiful landscapes and scenery.

Start your castle road trip in Koln, making sure to visit the simply stunning cathedral, and head southeast towards Frankfurt. Spend some time in the altstadt wandering around the pretty and atmospheric streets.

From here head towards Mespellbrunn Castle. It’s located pretty much in the middle of nowhere, however, it’s a stunning castle, which looks a lot like the Sleeping Beauty tower, located on a lake.

From Mespellbrunn Castle, keep heading southeast towards Stuttgart, a beautiful city full of green and open spaces. Be sure to spend plenty of time here exploring the town and its elegant buildings.

It’s worth stopping overnight and taking advantage of the fantastic restaurants, bars and beer gardens which line the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town.

From Stuttgart, start to head back north-west. Spend time visiting the lovely Bad Wildbad in the Black Forest and maybe indulge yourself in one of the many thermal baths there.

Head for historic Heidelberg and spend some time admiring and visiting the imposing Heidelberg Castle before crossing the wide river Neckar on the famous old bridge. This is another great town for an overnight stay.

Stop by the pretty and very German town of Koblenz, before heading to Eltz Castle. If you’re looking for a quintessential fairytale castle, then Berg Eltz is it! When you’re done swooning over Eltz, head to the small complex of Rheinstein Castle high on the banks of the Rhine (or Rhein in Germany) river.

Make for your last stop in Cochem on the gorgeous Moselle, and the impressive Cochem Castle. Stay for the night and try some of the delicious wine produced in this region or take a guided tour of a vineyard with a wine tasting.

This is a fully packed itinerary covering all the best bits of Germany. I’m sure you’ll agree, this makes a fantastic German road trip!

RELATED POST: 18 Magical Castles in Germany to Add to Your Bucket List

Koln ⇒ Hotel Lyskirchen for its ideal old town location, boutique vibe and modern rooms.

Bad Wildbad ⇒ Mokni’s Palais Hotel and Spa for some of that thermal action, as well as old-fashioned elegance and service.

Heidelberg ⇒ Ninetynine Hotel Heidelberg City for funky and modern design, super-comfortable beds and a lively, sociable bar.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Germany.

The German Alpine Road

Lindau – bad hindelang – pfronten – füssen – oberammergau – garmisch-partenkirchen – bad tölz – rottach-egern – oberaudorf – aschau im chiemgau – reit im winkl – berchtesgaden.

Distance 450km
Duration 7-10 days

Starting at Lake Constance (Bodensee) and winding its way through the diverse and spectacular Bavarian landscape to Lake Koningssee, following the Alps from west to east, the Deutsche Alpenstrasse is simply spectacular and has to be one of the most scenic road trips in Germany.

On this south Germany road trip, the oldest tourist route in Germany, you’ll explore picture-perfect towns, alpine lakes and meadows, historic castles, and fantastic driving roads, perfect for whatever your means of transport.

Starting in the pretty harbor town of Lindau on Lake Constance, take the twisting road of the Rohrbach ascent into the Allgäu peaks, for spectacular views and the Scheidegg waterfalls in the Rohrach Gorge.

Continue through Oberstaufen, stopping for a dip in the cold and clear waters of Grosser Alpsee, to the traditional German town of Immenstadt, before crossing the Oberjoch Pass. With 106 bends, this is one of the most scenic and exciting drives of the whole route – make sure you allow enough time to stop for photos!

As you continue east, you’ll step into the fairytale world of King Ludwig II on a tour of the castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau and the Museum of the Bavarian Kings. Three lakes on this part of the route – Weissensee, Hopfensee, and Forggensee – offer gorgeous scenery.

Upper Bavaria, the land of drama, adventure, and extreme sports is next on the route. Here you can explore the summit of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, take in Linderhof Palace, swim in the beautiful Eibsee, and discover the many intricate Baroque churches and monasteries, like the Church of Wies. Oberammergau, home of the famous ten yearly Oberammergau Passion Play , is also in this region and well worth visiting.

Fancy a swim? The next part of the route runs through the Tölzer Land, beside Lake Walchensee, across the fabulous Kesselberg Pass, and on to Lake Kochelsee. After Benediktbeuern with its abbey, Bad Heilbrunn, Bad Tölz, and Lenggries, the route climbs to the Sylvenstein reservoir, where you’ll have fantastic views.

The next section of the route in the Tegernsee and Schliersee region sees you driving through Rottach-Egern, Tegernsee, Schliersee, and Bayrischzell, known for their restaurants and cafés that provide Bavarian hospitality and delicious local food and drink for you to sample. As you continue on, the road meanders through the mountains to Chiemsee, and panoramic views are guaranteed.

The German Alpine Route saves the best for last – crossing the 868m high Schwarzbachwacht Pass into the incredible landscape of the Berchtesgaden Alps and Konigsee, widely thought to be the most stunning lake in Germany.

RELATED POST: Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights

Fussen ⇒ Hotel Sonne for its wonderful old town location, local cuisine, and contemporary decor.

Bad Tolz ⇒ Hotel am Wald for its wellness area, panoramic views, and cozy rooms.

Berchtesgaden ⇒ Alpenhotel Fischer for its fabulous spa, out-of-town location, and family hospitality.

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our favorite Europe road trips for ideas and inspiration!

Iconic German Cities

Frankfurt – munich – cologne – munster – hanover – frankfurt.

Distance 1700km
Duration 10-14 days
Drive Time 24 hours

Map of the best places to tour in Germany

If you really can’t decide which road trip to take and you have a few weeks. then why not consider taking a driving tour of Germany, hopping between some of Germany’s most historic and beautiful cities, and taking in elements of all our road trips on the way?

This road trip route will take you past or in close proximity to some of the most beautiful places in Germany including fairy tale castles and towns, famous landmarks, stunning rivers, and wine regions.

You’ll drive on fantastic roads and if you choose not to use the autobahns, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace and be able to enjoy the ever-changing scenery and small historic towns of this surprisingly gorgeous country.

If you’re road tripping Germany in winter, you’ll love the clear crips days, frosty landscapes and of course, the traditional Christmas markets that the country is famous for. Fairy lights, gluhwein, traditional artisan gifts, and hearty, warming local food will make your winter road in Germany really memorable.

Don’t forget Germany’s recent history either. This route will take you close to both Dachau and Bergen Belsen concentration camps, which make for harrowing visits that nevertheless should be taken, lest we forget the past, which must never be repeated.

You’ll also find the opportunity to tour the top car museums of BMW in Munich and Porche and Mercedes in Stuttgart. Why not test yourself and take a drive around the famous Nurburgring on your way past?

If you are lucky enough to have three weeks or longer, then add the eclectic and fascinating city of Berlin to the mix, or head south from Munich for the incredible Deutsche Alpenstrasse, or German Alpine Road, one of the most scenic drives in Germany.

Where to Stay – Our Top German Hotels

These are luxurious, treat-yourself hotels, known for their sumptuous decor, opulent furnishings, and outstanding service.

Frankfurt ⇒ Hotel Villa Kennedy for its incredibly gorgeous rooms, comprehensive spa, and superb, discreet service.

Munich ⇒ Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski for its high-end location on the fashionable Maximilianstrasse, architectural grandeur, and first-class service.

Koln ⇒ Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom for its fabulous cathedral location, love of tradition, and impeccable service.

Koln at sunset, a perfect stop over on a roadtrip Germany

German Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Germany.

Search for affordable flights to Germany with Skyscanner
Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Germany with Booking.com
Find and book the best campsites in Germany with Eurocampings
Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Germany with Rentalcars.com
Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Tips for Driving in Germany

The roads in Germany are well maintained, the autobahns are toll-free and there are excellent regional and minor roads with great services for drivers, making Germany a fantastic place to road trip.

Contrary to popular belief though, there are speed limits on the autobahn, and many sections have limits between 120km/h (75mph) and 110km/h (68mph) or lower, especially in urban areas.

Whether you’re traveling in your own vehicle or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in Germany;

You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Germany.
You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle, reflective jacket (for the driver and all passengers), spare wheel, and the tools to change a wheel or a tire repair kit.
If you wear glasses you must carry a spare pair.
You should carry a first aid kit, but this is only compulsory for four-wheeled vehicles registered in Germany).
Germany introduced regulations in 2010 requiring all passenger cars and motorbikes to be fitted with winter or all-season tires in wintry conditions.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out these top posts…

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Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

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2 Week Itinerary Exploring Germany & Switzerland with Kids

March 2, 2017 by Contributor

Our 2 week Germany/Switzerland with Kids Itinerary covers how to travel Switzerland with kids, where to stay and what to see that will appeal to most kids, and adults alike.

Road Trip Through Switzerland

Travelling from North-Western Germany to Eastern Switzerland sounds like a lot of miles and even more headaches. We came up with the “perfect” road trip itinerary to get us to where we wanted to go, explore what we wanted to explore and keep the children happy at the same time.

If you’re looking for the other posts in the Ultimate Travel Guide to Switzerland , we’ll link to them as they are available!

Part 1: Swiss Museum of Transport Part 2: SaurierMuseum – Dinosaur Museum in Zurich Part 3: Guide to Visiting Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe Part 4: Top Things to See in Vaduz, Liechtenstein Part 5: a Guided walking tour of Zurich Part 6: Snow in the Swiss Alps: Little Snow for Christmas Part 7: Touring Lake Geneva with kids Part 8: Jungfraujoch with kids Part 9: Top family friendly Hotels near Jungfrau

Day 1 | Heidelberg

Leaving nice and early in the morning, when the kids are the most pliable, allowed us to hit up the Heidelberg Christmas Market and Castle before the witching hour. We arrived just as the kids were waking from their naps and ready to hit the ground in search of lunch.

Spend a few hours walking around the 5 Christmas markets before making your way to the castle. A quick trip on a funicular and you have reached the top and ready to explore.

Travel Tip- guests need to book a private tour in order to access the inside of the castle. Either way, the outside was just as nice and we needed to get going to our next stop.

Exploring the Heidelberg Christmas Markets and Castle was a great day trip, and amazing start to our holiday vacation. Definitely got us in the Spirit.

While we had planned on spending the night in Heidelberg, we really wanted to check out Triberg before leaving the area so we changed our reservation, easily (and often) done through booking.com and spent our first night in Triberg. It is a short drive from Heidelberg so the kids have enough time to sleep off the afternoon activities and get ready for dinner.

In the morning, be sure to check out the Triberg waterfalls, local shops and sights before making your way to the target destination; the purchasing of an authentic Bavarian cuckoo clock.

Travel Tip; Oli’s Schnitztube makes both handmade and mass-produced clocks available at any price range; they also take VAT forms and ship around the world.

Visiting the Black Forest can seem a little overwhelming. Having a quick list of what to see in Triberg can help make heads or tails of it all. Our road trip through Switzerland was 10 months in the making and we spent 10 glorious days jumping from mountain to mountain, city to city.

Day 2 | Rhine falls

Halfway between Triberg and Zurich lays Rhine Falls. While there is plenty to do here to last you a whole day or even a few days, including Adventure Park Rheinfall, and Schloessli Woerth.

Check out these tour options of Rhine Falls as a day trip from Zurich.

Day 2| Zürich

Moving this road trip right along, day 2 ends in Zürich. We made sure we arrived early enough to check in our hotel and unpack the car while it was still light outside, as digging around a car in the pitch black with kids wandering is never ideal.

As there isn’t much to do in the immediate area (the only time we haven’t had a hotel in the city center, but this is Switzerland and it is expensive as all heck and it just wasn’t in our budget). The train line services the hotel and goes straight to the main station.

Day 3| Zürich Walking Tour

Scheduling a walking tour for the next morning is a great way to see the city in a short period of time, and get a lay of the land. Once the tour is over, get an idea of what you want to see more of, what you missed or what you want nothing more to do with.

This also gives the added bonus of visiting the Christmas markets both during the day and in the evening, when the Christmas decorations were lite up. We hit most of the major points on our to-do list during the tour so we took advantage of the rest of our time in Zürich to explore the greater area.

Here are some other great walking tour options for Zurich from Viator.

Take a day to visit the famous SaurierMuseum in the next town over. Definitely a not-to-be-missed item.

Day 4 | Vaduz

Speaking of day trips, taking the time to visit one of the world’s smallest countries, Liechtenstein, be sure to visit its capital city of Vaduz.

Vaduz tourism office was also able to stamp your passport, for a small fee, without “invalidating” it. Beautiful!

Day 5 | Lucerne

For a second day trip, don’t forget about Lucerne. From here you are able to check out many of the famous landmarks that everyone has come to associate with Switzerland, including the covered bridge.

The Swiss Museum of transport was on our way out. When I initially Googled it, I understood it as a Train museum, and next door was a chocolate factory tour. Nope. The Swiss Museum of Transportation is a giant compound with a separate building for each mode of transportation, and it was attached to the Lindt Factory Tour. We spent another 3 hours here exploring and could have stayed longer.

Day 6 | Laundry day

It is always important to take the day off from touring and “live like the locals”. This includes getting lost in the downtown streets, eating local street-meat and laundry day.

Day 7, 8 | Zermatt

Taking the Lötschberg Car Train from Zürich to Täsch was an experience I will never forget. The kids were fascinated by the whole experience as well. Arrive with 10 minutes to spare in order to get all the potty breaks out of the way, purchase the 30 CHF ticket and wait to be boarded. More information can be found here , on the official Zurich website.

30 minutes later and we were on the other side. While we were driving up the mountain, to get to the town that held this train, I realized I am glad that we are going in this direction and not Zermatt to Zürich… we were on the inside of the road the whole time, and their guardrails are too small for me (I am terrified of heights).

Road trip Switzerland Our road trip through Switzerland was 10 months in the making and we spent 10 glorious days jumping from mountain to mountain, city to city

In order to access Zermatt, one can either stay in Täsch (the next town over) or directly in the town of Zermatt. They do not allow cars into the town so they will need to be parked elsewhere and shuttled in.

Travel Tip; there is plenty to do in Zermatt for non-skiers including making the journey up the mountain to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise .

Day 9, 10 | Jungfraujoch

After spending a few nights in Tasch, it is time to move on to another great mountain range, taking another car-train towards Grindelwald. This is where we spent Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, in the shadows of the beautiful Jungfrau mountain; we woke up Christmas morning to a buffet breakfast in our hotel and rode the cog train up to Jungfraujoch.

During the research portion of our planning, I had a hard time finding proper information regarding Jungfraujoch with small children.

That is when I decided to dedicate two whole articles on this journey; Jungfraujoch with kids – the logistics of taking children into the mountain, as well as Getting to Jungfraujoch – knowing how and when to book tickets and actually arrive at the experience (since the website is a little hard to navigate)

Day 11 | Colmar

After spending 10 days on vacation, the children were starting to rebel. The plan was to continue for 3 nights in Bern, visit Thun Castle and eventually spend the night in Colmar on the way home, but we had to cut our journey short.

We went straight from Grindelwald to Colmar on Boxing Day, checking out the amazing Christmas Markets there and eventually spending the night in Ramstein where we visited a friend and fellow blogger.

Where to stay in Switzerland

Of all the cities we have stayed in, we found a few gems and a few duds. Here are our recommendations for hotels in Switzerland and on our way to Switzerland.

Hotel Tschuggen – Grindelwald, Jungfraujoch
The Guests’ House – Zurich
Tascherhof Hotel – Tasch, Zermatt and Matterhorn
Novotel Freiburg am Konzerthaus – Freiburg, Germany
Le Kleber Hotel – Strasbourg, France
Hotel Pirsch – Ramstein, Germany
Berghotel Schwarzwaldblick – Triberg, Germany

Your Thoughts...

Please share your thoughts in the comments or reach out on social media...We would love to hear from you.

Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria: Charming Central Europe Itinerary

By Helene Sula

If Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, and the bad witch planned a getaway together, this would be their itinerary. If you have seven days in Europe and you really want to see the quaint villages, the storybook streets, the breathtaking castles, and the fairy-tale beauty that's inspired countless books and movies, then you need to spend 7 days in Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria. This will lead you on the most charming Central Europe Itinerary that I guarantee will not disappoint.

Even witches agree.

Now before you yell at me and say, Helene, 4 countries in 7 days, that's much too tiring! Please keep in mind I did this entire tour 6 weeks after ACL surgery and my leg was in a brace. It's absolutely doable, especially if you'd really like a taste of each of these beautiful countries.

The nice thing about traveling through Central Europe is that everything is so easy to get to. The tough part is deciding where to stop! So hopefully this will help you make the choice.

How to get there

If you're flying, a great place to kick off your central Europe trip itinerary is Frankfurt, Germany. This is a huge international hub and you can find very reasonable flight prices . From here, you can easily take a train or rent a car. There is an option to take a bus, while very cheap, I'm just not a fan of the bus system. It's usually running extremely behind and, to me, time is money. If you have a short time and you really want to see a good portion of Europe, then skip the bus and rent a car or take the train.

If you're renting a car I suggest using a company like Sixt to book your rental. This is going to be the best and easiest way to get around. But you can also take a train, and GoEuro is the best resource out there to book the best routes.

Why go this route

I always get asked my favorite places in Europe or where to travel to next. I have been living in Europe almost two years now. I've also visited Europe, separately at least 10 times. This is still one of my most favorite trips to date.

When people come to Europe this is one of my most recommended itineraries. While it's hard to play favorites with so many beautiful places, this is easily high on my list. You get the stunning alps, medieval castles, historic buildings, quaint towns, and delicious food all rolled into one. You can't go wrong!

Itinerary at a glance

I suggest spending at least 7 days to tackle this Central European itinerary:

Day 1: Heidelberg, Germany

Day 2: Baden-Baden and Black Forest, Germany

Day 3: strasbourg and colmar, france, day 4: basel and zurich, switzerland.

Day 5: Lake Constance, Germany and Fussen, Germany

Day 6: Innsbruck, Austria

Day 7: wilder kaiser, austria.

Is this a lot to see in 7 days? Yes. But remember, these places are all relatively close to one another, so it's very easy to get from place to place. You can always extend this itinerary if you have time. Our friends fell in love with the Wilder Kaiser region of Austria and ended up staying there longer. You can also take out cities. Skip Switzerland altogether and focus on the other regions if you'd like.

This is a suggested best of Europe itinerary but you can easily make it your own.

Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria Itinerary

Day 1: heidelberg.

Heidelberg is truly one of the loveliest cities in all of Europe. With a striking sandstone castle, an old town that's remained unperturbed since the 17th century, and the Neckar river that runs through the city, it will make you want to move there. I did . The nice thing about Heidelberg is that it's small enough so you can easily see many of the main attractions all in a day.

You can easily get around to the top attractions by walking. There's also an easy to use tram system. For a place to stay, this hotel is located in the city center, has breakfast, and is a nice 4-star hotel.

Here are my top 10 recommendations or you can check out my full guide to the city .

Next, we are headed just an hour south of Heidelberg to the double-named city of Baden-Baden. Known as a spa town, you can bathe as the royals did in mineral water that supposedly has healing powers. If you'd rather skip the spa, you can also check out the casino. You'll want to walk in, whether you plan on gambling or not, to check out the opulent space inspired by Versailles. The town center is strewn with brightly colored buildings and pretty cafes. This is a great place to make a day trip from Heidelberg, and it's easy to get to the next stop in the Black Forest.

The Black Forest is an oasis in Germany and it seems like Hansel and Gretel might pop out at any moment. It feels like a mythical place with the storybook half-timbered homes, scenic hiking, and Black Forest cake. Sasbachwalden is a quintessential town in the Black Forest and one of the the best places to sit at a cafe and grab a cup of coffee alongside a decadent cake. You can also check out the hiking trails in the area. Be on the lookout for the schnapps stalls where you can take a shot of the local farmer's schnapps and leave a euro or two in exchange.

Today, you can stay in the Black Forest but I recommend making the short trek and sleeping in Strasbourg so you can wake up and enjoy the city.

Strasbourg and Colmar are two of the most beautiful places in the Alsace, if not France itself. Strasbourg is a quick drive from the Black Forest and has influence from both France and Germany since it's flip-flopped owners quite a few times over the years. The Notre Dame Cathedral is not to be missed, and make sure to head inside to check out the astronomical clock. I suggest grabbing a pastry and checking out the “Petite France” area where one house is cuter than the next.

A good place to stay in Strasbourg is Hotel Beaucour which is well priced and centrally located.

Colmar, France is equally as charming and much smaller than Strasbourg. It's easy to tackle this city in a half day. Your best bet is to park just on the outskirts of the old town and wander through the streets. The cobblestone streets are lined with medieval half-timbered homes and canals that run throughout “La Petite Venice”. Since this area is known for wine, make sure to find a good spot to eat and drink. We ate a decadent meal at Wistub de la Petite Venise that made our long day of strolling well worth it.

From France, drop down further south to Basel, Switzerland. Conveniently located on the border of France, Germany, and Switzerland, Basel is a surprisingly lovely city. Walk into the old town and gaze up at the incredible Rathaus (Town Hall) and the equally impressive Basel Munster (Church). Make sure to walk towards the water for a panoramic view of the Rhine river.

After your morning in Basel, veer east to Zurich for modern European flair. Located on the lake in northern Switzerland you'll find a 12th-century cathedral (Grossmünster) and 11th-century church (Fraumümster) all within walking distance. The modern part comes in with the sprawling economic life and cosmopolitan metropolis. Take in the lake views and don't forget to treat yourself to Swiss fondue.

Day 5: Lake Constance and Fussen, Germany

Seeing two places in one day is totally doable, especially since both of these locations are so close. First up is Lake Constance, aka “Bodensee” in German, a lake surrounded by Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. We are headed to the German side to the city of Constance (Konstanz in German) where you'll find a quaint old town where you can climb the 15th-century old Hohenzollernhaus, 16th-century Rathaus, and Konstanz Minster (cathedral). Make sure to climb the tower of Hohenzollernhaus to get a view of the city. If you'd like more time, you can go to the lake to explore by boat.

You can't go wrong with seeing any castle in Germany. But the most beautiful has to be Neuschwanstein castle . Located atop a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau you'll find the palace of Ludwig II. The castle was constructed primarily for beauty and an echo to the medieval kinds of the past. The interior of the castle is interesting, but I suggest spending time going to the bridge (Marienbrücke) to get a better view of the castle in its splendor. Check out my full guide to the castle here .

Don't forget to walk around the castle grounds to take a look at the captivating surroundings.

Make sure to go to the nearby town of Fussen for candy-colored buildings and a great place to relax. German fast food is generally kebabs, and Fussen has a surprisingly great place called “City Kebab”. Quick and friendly service along with low prices. Next, satisfy your sweet tooth at Eiscafe Dolomiti . Delicious flavors and perfect for strolling this small, picturesque village.

Drive a bit further, to Innsbruck and spend the night. The city at night is so lovely (and lively) and you can get up in the morning to explore the city.

Finally, heading to Austria! Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol and remains an impressive city. Not only is the city adorned with gorgeous architecture, you have the added benefit of the Alps in the background. Not to be missed is the Hofburg, the Imperial Palace of the Hapsburgs filled to the brim with lavish decor.

Take a walking tour of the old town and gaze at the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl). With 2,738 gold gilded tiles, it's easy to spot this landmark. Some other sites are: Inn Bridge, Jesuit Church, the pastel colored homes across the river, and City Tower.

Check out my travel guide to Innsbruck here .

Saving the best for last is the Wilder Kaiser region of Austria. The Wilder Kaiser mountain range is located in the Alps and you'll find miles of rolling hills, sharp, craggy mountains, cows touting bells, and pristine lakes. Truly, this area is one of the most beautiful in the world. The Kaiser villages of Ellmau, Going, Scheffau, and Söll in the “Kaisergebirge” make you feel right at home.

It feels like a sanctuary where you can relax, dine, enjoy the world around you. Out of all the places in Europe I'm often asked which is my favorite. Immediately, this region pops into my mind. The Alps are some of the most striking mountains, but the villages are equally as stunning. The brightly colored cathedral towers rise up alongside the wood chalets, beckoning you to enjoy the scenery.

Whether you want to hike, bike (this region is the largest E-Bike region in the world), or relax, you can find something that interests you. In the Winter you can ski the Alps and in Spring and Summer there is hiking , biking, and swimming. But despite these towns being relatively small, there is always something going on. Michael and I love attending the local festivals which bring out some of the region's best food. You can see all the activities happening right here .

I have stayed in all of the towns in Wilder Kaiser, and to be honest each one offers you a pleasant stay and ease of access to activities. I particularly enjoyed Hotel Hochfilzer in Ellmau. You can easily walk to the ski lifts or stroll around the town.

One of the highlights of the of the Wilder Kaiser are the alpine lakes. Lake Hintersteinersee is just outside of Scheffau and is widely known as one of the cleanest and most beautiful. The turquoise blue water is surrounded by craggy peaks of the mountains and makes for an epic view. You can swim and eat right at the lake.

Another gorgeous spot is Ahornsee in Söll. This smaller lake almost feels like a pool in the middle of the alps. You can relax on deck chairs or hop on a float and just take in your surroundings.

Besides the obvious outdoor activities, the culinary experiences are unmatched. I love the Cheese and Bacon tasting in Söll so much, I've now done it twice (and would not be opposed to doing it again.) This tasting is one of the best kept secrets of the region. Come hungry because you're given a variety of cheese (each served with a glass of wine), bacon, schnapps, and even a beer! Not only do you get some of the finest food from the region, you also get to learn about this area and how it has developed over hundreds of years.

Another way to enjoy Austrian delicacies along with the views, is breakfast on the mountain. Enjoy a hike up the mountain (or you can take a lift or drive) and be greeted with a traditional breakfast at an alpine inn, surrounded by stunning views.

You can find the breakfast options right here . It's a surprisingly affordable price and you can't beat the scenery. You can also head up to see Austria's highest peaks and get a 360° panoramic view from the Gipfelrestaurant Hohe Salve .

What I love about this area so much is that it doesn't feel forced. You are stepping into their daily life and they invite you with open arms. The cows moseying through the alpine pasture are used for their milk, the farmers produce the cheese and bread you eat, and spending a few days here will make you feel part of the village life. If you'd like to truly experience Austrian life and “Tyrolerism”, there is truly no better place to go.

I totally understand if you extend your stay in Wilder Kaiser by a few days, it's just so enchanting. After your stay in the Alps you can head back to Heidelberg or Frankfurt. It's about a 5-hour drive from here.

See more from Wilder Kaiser here .

What I love so much about Europe is the diversity of its landscape. You can find old intertwined with new, quaint alongside grand, and nature mixed with urban life. I believe this one week Central Europe itinerary brings about the best of both worlds and helps you see a different side of European culture.

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland with This Epic Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Europe and looking for an adventure that combines the best of Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland, then you’re in the right place. In this itinerary, you’ll discover the vibrant culture and history of Amsterdam, explore the stunning landmarks of Germany, and indulge in the scenic beauty and delicious delights of Switzerland. Let’s dive in and plan your ultimate Amsterdam Germany Switzerland itinerary!

With this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the highlights of three amazing countries in just 11 days. From the charming canals of Amsterdam to the majestic mountains of Switzerland, you’ll get to see it all. So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and let’s create memories that will last a lifetime with this Amsterdam Germany Switzerland itinerary.

Discovering Amsterdam: A City of Canals and Culture

Amsterdam is one of the most charming and picturesque cities in Europe, with its winding canals, historic architecture, and world-renowned museums. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

Start your adventure by exploring the city’s iconic canals, which offer a unique perspective on the city’s stunning architecture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Anne Frank House, one of the city’s most popular attractions, or the Van Gogh Museum, which boasts the largest collection of works by the legendary artist.

Exploring the Best of Germany: From Historical Landmarks to Modern Marvels

Germany has so much to offer, from its rich history to its modern marvels. Start your German adventure in Berlin, where you can experience the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall , and the incredible street art scene. Next, head to Munich, where you can explore the beautiful architecture, enjoy a beer in one of the city’s many beer gardens, and visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle . And don’t forget about the stunning natural beauty of the Black Forest , which you can discover on a scenic drive or hike.

But Germany isn’t just about history and nature – it’s also home to cutting-edge technology and innovation. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart or the BMW Museum in Munich to learn about the latest in automotive engineering . And if you’re interested in space and astronomy, the Deutsches Museum in Munich has an impressive collection of exhibits on these topics. With so much to see and do, your trip to Germany is sure to be unforgettable.

Indulging in Swiss Delights: From Scenic Train Rides to Chocolate Tasting

Switzerland is a country that truly indulges all your senses. From its breathtaking landscapes to its mouth-watering chocolates, there’s something for everyone. And what better way to explore this beautiful country than by train? Switzerland boasts some of the most scenic train rides in the world, offering views of the stunning Alps and picturesque countryside.

One of the most famous train rides is the Glacier Express, which takes you on a 7-hour journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz. This ride will take you over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, offering spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. Another popular train ride is the Bernina Express, which takes you on a journey through the Swiss Alps and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

But Switzerland isn’t just about its stunning landscapes. It’s also a chocolate lover’s paradise. Swiss chocolate is known worldwide for its smooth, creamy texture and delicious taste. Some of the most famous chocolate brands in Switzerland include Lindt, Toblerone, and Nestle.

When in Switzerland, don’t forget to visit some of the famous chocolate factories and indulge in a chocolate tasting experience. You can also take chocolate making classes and learn the art of chocolate making from the experts.

Whether you’re a nature lover or a chocolate lover, Switzerland has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a journey of a lifetime!

Day 1: Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is a great place to start your European adventure. With its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and vibrant culture, Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone. On your first day, you can explore the city’s famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Anne Frank House. Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Jordaan neighborhood and stop by the flower markets to see the beautiful tulips that the country is famous for. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants and try some local Dutch cuisine.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels like a true Amsterdammer. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in the city and there are many bike rental shops around. Make sure to visit Vondelpark, the city’s largest park, and take a leisurely ride through its scenic trails. With so much to see and do in Amsterdam, your first day in the city is sure to be an unforgettable one.

Day 2-3: Berlin

Get ready for a whirlwind adventure as you explore the bustling city of Berlin over the next two to three days. From historical landmarks to modern marvels, Berlin has something for everyone.

Day 2: Historical Landmarks

Start your day by visiting the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of Germany’s reunification. Then, head to the Reichstag building, which houses the German parliament, for a stunning view of the city from its glass dome.

Next, visit the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, a somber but important site that serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II . From there, head to Checkpoint Charlie, the famous crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.

End your day by taking a stroll along the East Side Gallery, a 1.3-kilometer section of the Berlin Wall that features over 100 murals painted by artists from around the world.

Day 3: Modern Marvels

Start your day at Potsdamer Platz, a bustling public square that showcases the modern architecture and commercial energy of Berlin. From there, head to the Berlin Zoo to see over 20,000 animals from around the world.

Next, visit the Museum Island, a complex of five museums that houses some of the world’s most impressive art collections. Make sure to check out the Pergamon Museum, which features ancient artifacts from the Middle East and beyond.

End your day with a visit to the iconic Berlin TV Tower, the tallest structure in Germany, for a breathtaking view of the city at sunset.

With so much to see and do in Berlin, you won’t want to leave this vibrant and exciting city.

Day 4-5: Munich

If you’re a fan of beer, you’re going to love Munich! This Bavarian city is home to some of the world’s best breweries and beer gardens, making it a paradise for beer lovers. But that’s not all Munich has to offer. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundance of cultural attractions, Munich is a city that’s sure to delight every traveler.

Start your visit by exploring the historic city center, where you’ll find landmarks like Marienplatz, the Neuschwanstein Castle, and the Residenz Museum. The Marienplatz is home to the famous Glockenspiel, a clock tower that chimes and reenacts historical events twice a day.

No visit to Munich would be complete without a trip to the Hofbräuhaus, one of the oldest and most famous beer halls in the world. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a stein of Bavarian beer while soaking up the lively atmosphere and traditional German music.

For something a little different, head to the Englischer Garten, a vast public park in the heart of Munich. Here, you can relax in the sunshine, wander through the beautiful gardens, and even catch some surfers riding the artificial waves in the park’s river.

Munich also has a thriving art scene, with numerous museums and galleries showcasing everything from classical art to contemporary works. Some of the must-visit institutions include the Pinakothek der Moderne and the Lenbachhaus.

And of course, no trip to Munich would be complete without indulging in some traditional Bavarian cuisine. From hearty sausages and schnitzels to sweet apple strudel and fluffy dumplings, there’s no shortage of delicious food to try in this foodie paradise.

Overall, Munich is a city that has something for everyone. So whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a beer enthusiast, or just looking to relax and enjoy some delicious food, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Munich.

Day 6-7: Zurich

Switzerland is famous for its natural beauty, and there’s no better place to experience it than in Zurich. With a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, Zurich offers something for everyone. Start your day by taking a stroll along the picturesque Limmat River, which flows through the heart of the city. Don’t miss the historic Fraumünster Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows created by Marc Chagall.

If you’re a fan of art, the Kunsthaus Zürich museum is a must-visit. With an impressive collection of artwork spanning from the Middle Ages to the modern era, you’ll be sure to find something that catches your eye. And for those interested in Swiss history, the Swiss National Museum is the perfect place to learn about the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Of course, no visit to Switzerland would be complete without indulging in some Swiss chocolate. Head to the famous Confiserie Sprüngli for a taste of some of the best chocolate in the world. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a scenic train ride to nearby Lucerne for even more chocolate tasting and breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

As evening falls, make your way to Zurich’s trendy Niederdorf neighborhood for some delicious Swiss cuisine and a lively atmosphere. With so much to see and do, Zurich is the perfect destination for a memorable and unforgettable trip to Switzerland.

Day 8-9: Interlaken

Interlaken, the charming town located between two alpine lakes in the heart of Switzerland, is a must-visit destination on your epic itinerary. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Interlaken offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, crystal clear lakes, and lush green valleys.

Start your day by taking a scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe.” At an altitude of 3,454 meters, Jungfraujoch is the highest railway station in Europe and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

After taking in the stunning views, head back to Interlaken and indulge in some adventure sports. From paragliding and bungee jumping to skiing and snowboarding, Interlaken has something for everyone.

If adventure sports are not your thing, take a leisurely walk around the town and explore the quaint shops and cafes. Don’t forget to try some delicious Swiss chocolate at one of the local chocolate shops.

In the evening, unwind with a cruise on Lake Thun or Lake Brienz, and enjoy the serene beauty of the alpine lakes.

Interlaken is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Make sure to add it to your itinerary and experience the best of Switzerland.

Day 10-11: Geneva

If you’re a lover of all things luxurious, then Geneva is the perfect place for you to wrap up your epic journey through Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland. From world-class shopping to Michelin-star red restaurants, Geneva has everything you need to indulge in the finer things in life.

Start your first day in Geneva with a visit to the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain, which shoots water up to 140 meters in the air. From there, make your way to the Old Town to explore the charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Be sure to stop by the St. Pierre Cathedral, a stunning gothic church that dates back to the 12th century.

For lunch, head to Les Armures, a historic restaurant that’s been serving up traditional Swiss cuisine since the 17th century. Try the famous fondue, made with a blend of Swiss cheeses and served with crusty bread for dipping.

In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Parc des Bastions and check out the Reformation Wall, a massive monument that celebrates the key figures of the Protestant Reformation . From there, head to the Museum of Art and History to admire the impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

On your second day in Geneva, start with a visit to the Palace of Nations, the headquarters of the United Nations in Europe. Take a guided tour to learn more about the organization’s history and mission. Afterward, head to the Patek Philippe Museum, which showcases some of the world’s most exquisite timepieces.

For lunch, head to Chez Philippe, a cozy bistro that’s known for its creative takes on classic French dishes. Afterward, take a scenic boat tour on Lake Geneva to soak up the stunning views of the Swiss Alps.

In the evening, treat yourself to a luxurious dinner at La Réserve Genève, a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in contemporary French cuisine. Finish off your meal with a decadent dessert and a glass of Swiss wine before bidding farewell to your unforgettable adventure through Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland.

Final Thoughts: Your Unforgettable Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland Adventure Awaits!

As your epic adventure comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland. From cruising down the canals of Amsterdam to marveling at historical landmarks in Berlin and Munich, and indulging in Swiss delights like chocolate and scenic train rides, this journey has been nothing short of unforgettable.

But don’t let your journey end here. Take the memories and experiences with you as you continue to explore and discover new adventures around the world. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll find yourself back in the charming streets of Amsterdam or the breathtaking mountains of Switzerland.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey, and until next time, safe travels!

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Hi everyone,

Day 1: Frankfurt- pick up car , drive to Rhine Valley, stay over.

Day 2: To Black Forest / Baden Baden / Rottenburg ob ter tauber. Overnight

Day 3-5 : To lucerne/Berber oberland/ Interlaken (pl suggest)

Day 6-7: To Zurich /nearby

Day 8-9: Bavarian area (the castes,Dachau concentration camp, etc). Maybe lake Como too?

Day 10-11: Munich

Day 12-14: Prague

We have been to salzburg so not including that. Also, we drove in Austria and were comfortable with European driving rules. Please suggest:

1) is the overall itinerary workable?

2) would self drive really be very cumbersome AND expensive? Would some areas/interest points be inaccessible? My friends keep saying that but i think it's an amazing experience. I'm getting a car rental at decent pricing from Germany.

3) Any other places/interest points which I might have missed out in that area and is doable?

4) do we have nightlife in Zurich/lucerne

5) Am I being too repetitive in terms of places - like going to Bavaria after Switzerland.

I know it's a long post but would really appreciate and need your help/suggestions to finalise the same.

Some of your geography is off. Lake Como is nowhere near Bavaria!

Agree with #1, you are trying to cover a lot of ground and not allowing much time to actually see and experience anything.

I don't think it is too repetitive, Bavaria and Switzerland are quite different IMHO and both lovely

Thanks a lot for inputs. OK so Im gonna cut off few places and try to cut down on travel time, spending atleast 2 nights at each place as below:

Day 2: Black Forest (Staufen?)

Day 3: To Baden Baden - spend entire day there (or is this too ambitious and should stick to black forest for this day as well), late evening drive down to Switzerland

Day 4 - 9: Switzerland (6 days - we are not very fond of very touristy places and prefer small villages/ / local culture / history. Any suggested itinerary for this leg? especially considering we will be self-driving. I was thinking maybe 3 days in the Oberland and 3 near lucerne)

Day 10-12: Munich (I plan to keep the car for the first 2 days and do day trips to nearby castles/dachau/other suggestions?), after that drop the car in evening and spend the next (3rd) day entirely in Munich.

Day 13-15: Prague

Does the above seem more doable? any other suggestions would be highly appreciated. Thanks.

For trips around Munich , you may want to stay outside Munich itself, somewhere like Garmisch_Partenkirchen, for example, another good base. I have not been to Dachau so I have no idea what is best for that.

Hi sushantkansal

That was well worth it to us for the convenience, but that is up to the individual to make that decision. Our experiences have only been with Avis and SixT, so do check your quotes carefully.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Germany Road Trip – The Perfect 7-10 Day Germany Itinerary

Are you looking for a Germany road trip itinerary? Or are you wondering what to do in Germany?

A trip to Germany allows you to see half-timbered houses, fairytale castles, dark forests and bustling cities. You get the chance to try traditional German food, visit stunning palaces and drive on the Autobahn , the highway without speed limits.

We want to show you where to go in Germany and how to plan your trip. This Germany road trip planner does not just help you discover the best of the country, we also give you lots of travel tips. As we are both living here, we know the country well and can tell you precisely what to look out for. Keep reading and start planning your trip now!

Table of Contents

General Advice

About this itinerary for germany.

If you only have around ten days or even less, you won’t be able to see all of Germany. That is why we have focused our post on a Southern Germany road trip. You’ll see lots of famous tourist attractions, like Neuschwanstein Castle, but you’ll also go off the beaten road when visiting the UNESCO pile dwellings at Lake Constance.

We have written this travel itinerary for Germany for 10 days, but you can easily adapt it if you have less time. Skip one day in Frankfurt at the beginning and try to see the highlights of the city on your last day. We would also advise you to skip the hike to Lake Schrecksee and drive onwards to Lake Constance from Neuschwanstein Castle instead.

View of Neuschwanstein Castle from far away

Last, you can save an additional day by either skipping Würzburg or Blaubeuren. They are both fantastic places to visit, but if you’re pressed for time, you can always come back later to see them.

As an alternative, you can also turn this itinerary into a Frankfurt to Munich road trip. Start from the end, visit the Black Forest, Lake Constance and Neuschwanstein Castle and end your trip in Munich.

Also, this itinerary starts in Frankfurt. The airport of Frankfurt is one of the biggest in Europe, so you should find it easy to fly here. If it’s easier for you, you can look for flights to Munich and start your trip there. This itinerary is a round trip through Germany, so you are free to jump in at any time.

How to rent a car in Germany

Car advertising the Open Air Museum in the Black Forest

We highly recommend that you book your rental car before you come to Germany. During the high season, prices can skyrocket, and it’s often much cheaper to reserve a car in advance.

Among the best websites to do so are rentalcars.com and Discovercars , as they compare prices from different rental car companies. This is much faster than going to the websites individually to find the best price! Plus, you can specifically search for offers that include insurance, and you have lots of filters that help you find the terms and conditions you want.

On the note of insurance, third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Germany, so it has to be included in your offer. However, we recommend covering any damage to the rental car as well, as otherwise, in the case of an accident, you might face high costs.

Click here to search for a rental car in Germany now!

When searching for a car, make sure to double-check the mileage conditions. Some companies offer contracts that include only a limited amount of kilometres. While it may seem cheaper at first, every additional kilometre will cost you so much that it’s usually not worth it.

Also, if you want to start your South Germany road trip in Frankfurt and finish in Munich (or vice versa), you need to specify that you are going to drop off the car in a different location. It might cost you a little extra, but if you have limited time, it’s going to be worth it as it saves you another day of driving.

When to visit Germany

As we just mentioned, you can visit Germany at any time. That said, some seasons are nicer than others.

Summer is generally a good time for a trip to Germany. The weather is great, and it’s fun to spend time outside. As a downside, you’ll run into lots of other tourists, and this is usually the most expensive time of the year.

As an alternative, you could visit during the shoulder season in spring and autumn. The weather starts getting better in May, and you can still experience warm days in September and early October. You’ll also see far fewer tourists than in summer.

In winter, you’ll likely encounter much more rain than during the other seasons. The trees drop their leaves, which can make regions like the Black Forest look slightly desolated. That said, you have the chance to experience some of Europe’s best Christmas markets in December, and you might also encounter snow in winter.

How to get to Germany

For this itinerary, you can either fly to Frankfurt or Munich. Frankfurt’s airport is bigger, so you might find better deals to go here. It’s best to check out both cities, though, so you can find the best deal.

When searching for flights, we usually use websites like Skyscanner that allow us to compare lots of airlines at the same time. It’s very useful for finding a good deal, so go and check out flight prices now .

Germany road trip itinerary – Discover the best of Germany

Days 1-2: frankfurt.

Start your road trip in Frankfurt.

Frankfurt is not just the financial centre of Germany; it also features an Old Town full of half-timbered houses, a pretty riverside and lots of traditional pubs where you can spend your evenings.

We suggest taking your first day easy (especially if you had a long flight) and then spending a whole day in Frankfurt afterwards. Even though this is not enough time to see everything, it allows you to get a good glimpse of the city and its main attractions.

If you only have one week in Germany, skip Frankfurt and pick up your rental car at the airport. You can visit the city’s main attractions at the end of the week when you return here. However, if you’re going to see Germany in 10 days, then you can wait to pick up your car and enjoy your time in Frankfurt first.

Highlights of Frankfurt:

Römerberg and the Old Town: The half-timbered houses surrounding Römerberg are amongst the most impressive you can find in Germany. After World War II, most of this neighbourhood was in ruins. Fortunately, the city decided to reconstruct the historic houses, so you can admire them today. Make sure also to take a look at the Town Hall. If you need any further information, you can find the tourist information there.
Eiserner Steg: Did you know that Frankfurt is the only German city with that many skyscrapers? From the bridge Eiserner Steg , you have one of the most iconic views of the skyline. It’s especially lovely in the evening when the sun sets behind the high buildings.
Apfelwein: The local speciality of Frankfurt is called Apfelwein , which translates to “apple wine”. It’s a drink similar to cider but with no gas and a slightly more tart aftertaste. The best place to try it is on the Southern side of the river Main, in Sachsenhausen. Here, you can find many Apfelwein pubs, which can also serve you traditional foods from the area.
Visit a museum: Frankfurt is home to lots of great museums. Our top picks include the Städel Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art, the Goethe House, which is the birth house of the famous writer and the Palmengarten. While the latter is technically not a museum but the city’s botanical garden, it is well worth visiting.

Where to stay in Frankfurt

When planning a trip to Germany, we highly recommend that you look into hotels before you leave. Especially in summer, hotel rooms tend to book out, and prices go up if you wait for too long.

If you’re visiting in winter, you don’t need to worry too much. Nevertheless, for peace of mind, it’ll be great to have a hotel reservation already by the time you land in Frankfurt.

There are many great neighbourhoods for your stay in Frankfurt . However, since you only have a bit more than one day, we recommend you pick a hotel in the city centre. That way, you’ll be close to the city’s main attractions.

Here are our favourite picks for this area:

Mid-Range: The Moxy Frankfurt City Centre has the perfect location. From here, you can reach Römerberg and the river Main within a few minutes. The rooms are stylish and the beds comfortable, so what else could you wish for? Click here to check out prices and reviews!

A little more comfort: The Hotel Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof has a history of more than 100 years. It dates back to 1876 and is well-known for its elegant and classic interiors. You can find a Michelin-starred restaurant in the hotel as well as a fantastic spa – perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. Find out availability and prices now!

Budget : It’s challenging to find a decent budget hotel in the centre of Frankfurt. Nevertheless, the Hotel Scala Frankfurt City Centre offers affordable rooms and is only a few minutes away from the main pedestrian zone. When it comes to value for money, this hotel is one of the best. Read reviews and book your room now!

Day 3: Würzburg

This morning, take your rental car and drive to Würzburg. The first leg of your round trip around Germany is short, and as a highway connects Frankfurt and Würzburg, it should only take you an hour and a half.

In Germany, the Romantic Road is one of the biggest tourist magnets, especially for international visitors. It starts here in Würzburg and connects many traditional towns and villages with highlights like the Würzburg Residence. While you’re not going to follow it for this trip, it is worth checking out if you ever return to Germany.

For now, though, focus on Würzburg. Besides the Residence, a fantastic palace designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can find many more attractions here. Hike through vineyards, explore the Old Town and drink a glass of local wine on a historic bridge.

Highlights of Würzburg:

Würzburg Residence: The Würzburg Residence is one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Germany. After visiting the inside, make sure to also stroll through the gardens. They are gorgeous in summer, but you can also admire the symmetry in winter.
Marienberg Fortress: On the hike up to Marienberg Fortress, you come past many vineyards and viewpoints. From the top, you then have a fantastic view of Würzburg. If you’re not too tired yet, join one of the guided tours of the interior and explore the Princes’ Hall and the Treasury.
Old Main Bridge: Explore the Old Town on foot and then end your day with a glass of wine on the Old Main Bridge. While German wine might not be that well-known internationally, the wineries in Würzburg produce some pretty good wine that they sell on the bridge. Go and grab a glass! If the weather is nice, you’ll find many locals joining you to enjoy the evening.

Where to stay in Würzburg

We highly recommend that you book a hotel close to the city centre of Würzburg. That way, you can make the most of your time in this city and can walk home after having a glass of wine in the evening.

Here are a few options:

Mid-Range: The Franziskaner is known for its clean and modern rooms and its excellent location close to the Würzburg Cathedral. You can find public parking opposite the hotel, and it’s only a short walk to the Old Main Bridge. Click here to read reviews and check availability and prices !

A little more comfort: The Hotel Würzburger Hof offers beautifully decorated rooms close to the city centre. Reviews often mention the friendly and helpful staff, so go and check it out yourself !

Budget: It’s not easy to find a decent budget hotel right in the city centre of Würzburg. The Mainviertelhof, on the other side of the river Main, is a good option, and you can often find great deals here. Click to see availability and prices for your stay !

Day 4: Blaubeuren & Munich

Today, you’ll drive all the way to Munich. Instead of going the shortest route or following Germany’s Romantic Road, though, take the highway A7 south towards Ulm and stop in Blaubeuren.

Blaubeuren is famous for the Blautopf, an impossibly blue pond. If you leave Würzburg early enough and don’t get caught in a traffic jam, you can also visit one of the nearby caves.

Highlights of Blaubeuren:

Blautopf: This natural wonder is a must-see during your stop in Blaubeuren. Limestone particles make this pond shimmer in bright shades of blue and green. The colours are most beautiful in the morning, but it’s worth coming here at any time of the day. While the Blautopf looks like a small lake, it is much deeper than you would imagine. Twenty-two metres below the surface, you can find an entrance into a giant cave system.
Blaubeuren Abbey : Next to the Blautopf, you can find the Blaubeuren Abbey. For a small entrance fee, you can visit the inside. Make sure to also stop by the Bathhouse of the Monks, which you can find behind the abbey. The wall decorations are very unusual, and you’ll get a great insight into how the life of the monks must have been hundreds of years ago.
Hohle Fels Cave : This cave is a short drive from Blaubeuren, but if you have enough time, make sure to stop here. Humans have sheltered in this cave for around 65,000 years, and archaeologists found the oldest instrument in the world here. If you want to see the instrument (and more man-made exhibits from about 40,000 years ago), make sure also to visit the URMU museum in Blaubeuren.

After having stopped in Blaubeuren, continue your Germany round trip by driving to Munich. Depending on traffic, it takes around two hours to get here. In German, the city is called München, so don’t be confused if you never see any road signs mentioning Munich!

Where to stay in Munich

Stay in one of the hotels close to the centre, so it’s easy for you to explore the city the next day. As you have a whole day in Munich, make sure to book a stay for two nights.

Here are some good options:

Mid-Range : From Hotel Haus im Tal, you can reach the city centre in just a few minutes. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the staff is very friendly and helpful. Click here to book your stay now !

A little more comfort : If you want maximum comfort, stay at the Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München. The hotel offers stylish rooms with lots of extras and amenities, a fantastic spa with a sauna and a gym. If you want to learn more, click here to read reviews and find out everything the hotel has to offer !

Budget : Hotel Eder provides clean and simple rooms close to the Old Town. Deals often include buffet-style breakfast, giving you excellent value for your money. Check out rates and availability on booking.com !

Day 5: Munich

Today, you have a whole day to explore Munich. The biggest city in Southern Germany offers lots of historic buildings, majestic palaces and the perfect chance to try traditional Bavarian food.

Highlights of Munich:

Marienplatz : Munich’s central square is one of the best starting points for exploring the city. Here, you can find both the old and the new town hall, a fountain and the Mariensäule, a column to the Virgin Mary that dates back to 1638. If you stop here at 11 am or noon, you can see the mechanical figures on the front of the New Town Hall move and dance to a song.
Nymphenburg Palace : Even though you only have one day in Munich, try to make it to Nymphenburg Palace. The splendid interior is well worth a visit, and you could spend hours walking through the gardens. As you’re short on time, opt for a brief stroll instead or go for a gondola ride on the canals that surround the palace.
English Garden : This massive park in Munich is a favourite for both locals and tourists. In summer, it’s an excellent location for a picnic, but it’s fun to come here at any time of the year. Don’t miss the Chinese Tower, a 25-metre-high pagoda, and make sure to stop by the Eisbachwelle to see local surfers right in the middle of the city.
Hofbräuhaus : Munich is the perfect place to try traditional Bavarian food. While you’ll see some typical German food all over the country, the state of Bavaria is famous for some dishes you can only find here. If you’re travelling to Germany for the first time, we recommend that you try the Weißwurst with pretzel or go for the Schweinshaxe, the pork knuckle. Both are very traditional dishes. The Hofbräuhaus, a beer hall that dates back to 1589, is the perfect place to try them.

Day 6: Neuschwanstein Castle

View of Neuschwanstein Castle from Marienbrucke

This morning, get up early and head to Hohenschwangau, the next stop on your Germany travel itinerary. The little town on the edge of the Alps is home to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. Driving here takes a little less than two hours, which leaves you with plenty of time to see the castle and explore nearby attractions.

Highlights of Hohenschwangau:

Neuschwanstein Castle : Even though the castle looks as if it had stood here for centuries, it only dates back to the late 1800s. King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who built the castle, only lived here for 172 days until he died under mysterious circumstances. If you want to visit the inside and learn more about King Ludwig, you need to book your tickets well in advance (ideally, the moment you start to plan a trip to Germany). Fortunately, we have written a guide on how to visit Neuschwanstein Castle to help you prepare for your visit.
Marienbrücke : Just above Neuschwanstein Castle, you can find the Bridge of Mary. It takes around 20 minutes to walk here, and you’ll get to experience one of the most famous views of the castle. If you continue on the other side of the bridge, you can find even more fantastic viewpoints.
Hohenschwangau Castle : Make sure also to visit Hohenschwangau Castle, the yellow castle on the other side of the town. King Ludwig II used to spend his summers here, and this is where he got the inspiration to construct Neuschwanstein Castle. As his family lived in the castle for decades, the interior is much more interesting than in Neuschwanstein.

View of Hohenschwangau Castle from the town

After having explored Hohenschwangau, we recommend that you continue to the nearby town of Füssen. The Old Town of Füssen is well worth a visit , and you’ll have a much better choice when it comes to hotels and restaurants compared to Hohenschwangau.

Where to stay in Füssen

For your Germany trip, planning ahead is sometimes essential. Not only should you book your ticket to Neuschwanstein as early as possible, but we recommend that you also don’t leave your hotel booking in Füssen until the last minute. Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the 10 top tourist attractions in Germany, and the nicest hotels tend to book out early.

Base yourself here for two nights so that you can explore the Alps the next day.

Mid-Range : You can find Hotel Fantasia on the edge of the Old Town of Füssen, in a beautifully renovated traditional Bavarian house. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Alps, or you can go for a stroll through Füssen itself. And the best part? Most deals include breakfast! Go and check out prices and availability now!

A little more comfort : Hotel Hirsch offers really cool themed rooms which are beautifully decorated. Most rates include access to the breakfast buffet, and you also find free parking here. Click here to see reviews and book now !

Budget : It’s not easy to find proper budget accommodation in Füssen, but we have managed to locate an affordable guest house for you. The Maurushaus offers excellent rooms in a great location for little money. Unfortunately, last we checked, they were only taking limited bookings. Nevertheless, you should go and check out if they’re available for your dates!

Budget alternative: An alternative to the Maurushaus, though not quite as nice, is the Motel Füssen Im Allgäu. It’s not quite in the centre, but the Old Town is only a five-minute walk away. Click here to see photos and prices!

Day 7: Hike to Lake Schrecksee

View of lake Schrecksee from a nearby mountain

Today, you have a whole day to explore the Bavarian Alps. We recommend going for a hike to Germany’s highest alpine lake, Lake Schrecksee, but you also have many other options.

To hike to Lake Schrecksee, you need to get up early and make your way to Hinterstein. Here, you can leave your car at the parking lot and start your hike to Lake Schrecksee.

It takes about three hours to get to the lake, maybe an hour more if you’re not used to hiking regularly. In summer, make sure to bring your swimsuit so you can cool down and go for a swim during your break.

In winter, the hike to Lake Schrecksee is not feasible. But don’t worry, you can still find lots of things to do in the area. You could either go for a winter hike through the snow or ride a horse carriage through the snowy landscape.

Daniel looking ath the mountains near lake Schrecksee

An alternative is to drive to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a cute town near the Austrian border with lots of things to do. Or you could visit the Linderhof Palace, another one of King Ludwig II’s palaces. It’s gorgeous on snowy days.

In Germany, the road conditions in winter are usually good. Nevertheless, on snowy winter days, you might find ice on the roads. Therefore, if you are driving in Germany as a tourist, make sure to respect all speed limits and be careful. Those winding mountain roads can be challenging to navigate for anyone who doesn’t use them regularly.

Day 8: Lake Constance & The Black Forest

Today, get up early to make your way to the Black Forest.

We believe that the best way to travel through Germany by car is by making lots of stops along the way. You can discover so many beautiful places that it’s easy to break up long driving days. And that’s exactly what you’re going to do today, by taking a detour to Lake Constance.

How to visit the prehistoric pile dwellings of Lake Constance

Lake Constance is Germany’s biggest lake, even though not all of it belongs to Germany. The borders with Austria and Switzerland run through this lake, but you’ll be staying on the German side today.

Make your way to Unteruhldingen, where you can visit one of Germany’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the prehistoric pile dwellings of Lake Constance. You need to leave your car at the parking above the village but don’t worry. There are plenty of signs along the way to guide you.

The oldest stilt houses in the area date back to around 4,000 BC, and archaeologists found settlements in nine different locations. A boardwalk takes you around reconstructed pile dwellings, with separate sections dating back to different time periods.

Afterwards, make sure to stop in the museum, where you can see some of the ancient artefacts from the villages in the region.

If it’s lunchtime, walk to the restaurant Häfeli. Here, you can sit at the shore of the lake and enjoy a Dinnele, a traditional dish from the area similar to pizza. Ask for the one topped with fish from the lake to make it a truly unique foodie experience.

Where to stay in the Black Forest

After you’ve visited Lake Constance, the next stop on your 10 days in Germany-itinerary is the Black Forest. You can find lots of cute villages that could serve as a perfect base to explore the region. We suggest that you either stay in Triberg or somewhere further north.

Here are some ideas for excellent accommodation that you’re going to love:

Mid-Range : We stayed at the Bartleshof in the Black Forest and absolutely loved it. This farm rents out rooms and small apartments furnished with traditional furniture from the area. Not only does this make for a lovely atmosphere, but the Bartleshof is also a quiet place far away from all trouble and noises of the city. Click here to check out current rates and availability !

A bit more comfort : The Adler Schiltach Boutique Hotel is located in one of the cute half-timbered houses you can find in the Black Forest. The rooms are spacious, you can find free parking, and breakfast is often included in the rate. Plus, the building might be hundreds of years old, but the rooms are new and recently renovated. Read reviews and find out more information now !

Budget : Finding proper budget accommodation in the Black Forest is not easy. Nevertheless, you can find some decently priced hotels here. The Rommelehof is one of them and often offers reasonable rates. It’s located in a very traditional building from the Black Forest, which means that staying here is a unique experience. Click here to see photos and book your stay !

Day 9: Black Forest

Today, it’s time to visit the Black Forest.

The advantage of going around by car in Germany is that you can stop in lots of small villages along the way. The Black Forest has many of them, and they are all worth a visit! Besides that, you can also visit an open-air museum, see the world’s largest cuckoo clock or experience one of the best scenic drives in Germany.

Amongst the villages that we loved most are Haslach and Wolfach. Strolling through the towns, admiring the half-timbered houses, and sitting down to enjoy traditional food are among the best things to see and do in Germany.

If you like traditional architecture, make sure also to visit Rottweil. This city on the edge of the Black Forest is well worth a side trip, especially if you have some additional days to spend in Germany.

Highlights of the Black Forest:

Vogtsbauernhof : This open-air museum gives you a fantastic insight into what life was like in the Black Forest more than a hundred years ago. You can explore the old buildings, participate in a guided tour, make your own butter or just watch the staff as they walk around, dressed in traditional clothing from the area.
The world’s largest cuckoo clock : On the road from Hausach to Triberg, you will come across the world’s largest cuckoo clock. Stop by the Eble Uhren-Park, where you can also see many other cuckoo clocks. If you want to, you can even buy your own in the shop!
Triberg Waterfalls : The waterfall in Triberg is the highest one in Germany. A trail takes you all the way to its top, from where you can enjoy the view. If you’re interested in hiking through the Black Forest (which was said to have inspired the Grimm Brothers to write their fairytales), you can also find lots of fantastic hiking trails in this area.
Panoramic Road : The Panoramic Road of the Black Forest, called Panoramastraße in German, invites you on one of the best road trips in Germany. You travel through the Southern Black Forest on winding mountain roads and through tiny villages. Information on the official website is available primarily in German, but you can find a map here that will help you navigate.

Day 10: Frankfurt

Today, it’s time to drive back to Frankfurt. Make sure to include a few stops along the way. We recommend Nagold, where you can hike up to the castle on the hill behind the city, or Calw. Out of all the places we visited in Germany, Calw has some of the best-preserved Old Towns, with lots of pretty half-timbered houses.

When you return to Frankfurt, your road trip to Germany has come to an end. Enjoy your last evening with a glass of Apfelwein , and spend some time walking along the river Main or visiting some of the sights you missed on your first day here.

If you only have a week in Germany, we recommend that you don’t visit Frankfurt at the beginning of your trip. Instead, pass Nagold and Calw today and head straight back to Frankfurt to see the city. This allows you to squeeze as much as possible into this one week that you have to see the country.

If you have more time

If you have more than ten days for your road trip, we have lots of inspiration for you. You could spend more time in Munich or the Black Forest, or visit a completely different area in the country.

What you can see and do will ultimately depend on how many days in Germany you have. Here are some ideas for you:

Cologne : From Frankfurt, it’s easy to get to Cologne. You can either use your rental car or go by high-speed train. Cologne is most famous for its cathedral, but it’s also a fantastic city if you want to try local food, explore a chocolate museum and go for long walks along the river.
The Rhine and Mosel Valleys : The road trip through Germany we described above is only one option, and there are many more road trips in Germany worth doing. If you have enough time, you could extend your trip by visiting either the Rhine or the Mosel Valley – or both. Both are famous for their wine, their castles and their cute villages. Cochem is a great place to relax, or you could explore Eltz Castle, which gained lots of fame through Instagram lately.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber : If you have 2 weeks in Germany, or even more, you could consider adding more stops to this itinerary. After visiting Würzburg, for example, you have the chance to go on a detour to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This cute town looks so typically German that you’ll see it featured on many guidebooks. It’s also part of the Romantic Road, so you can follow that road for a while.

Driving in Germany

If you want to go on a road trip, Germany is the perfect country. Roads in Germany are usually well-maintained, and you have the Autobahn , the highway, connecting major points of interest.

Nevertheless, you might have a few questions about your road trip in Germany, which we are going to answer now.

What side of the road does Germany drive on?

In Germany, the driving side is the right side of the road. This is the same as in all of mainland Europe and North America.

If you’re used to driving on the left side of the road and have never been to a country where you have to go on the right, take it easy for the first few days. I learned to drive on the right side of the road, and when I rented a car in Malaysia, it took me a while to get used to driving on the left.

Eventually, it becomes easier, and you’ll get used to it pretty quickly.

Driving in Germany – road signs

As a tourist, driving in Germany is usually straightforward. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the most common road signs before arriving in the country.

Fortunately, all road signs in Europe follow a European convention. If you’re coming from outside the continent, you only have to learn those signs once, and you’re good to go for most places in Europe.

Wikipedia has a comprehensive overview of German road signs that you might find helpful.

Speed limits in Germany

When driving in Germany, it’s essential to know about speed limits.

As a general rule, the speed limit is 50 km/h in towns, cities and villages and 100 km/h on roads outside populated areas. On the highway, we don’t have a speed limit, so you can go as fast as your car and traffic allow.

That said, you will often see road signs with speed limits, so on large stretches of the Autobahn (and on many roads in and outside cities), you have to respect these limits.

Can you drink and drive in Germany?

No, you can’t. The limit for blood alcohol is 0,5 ‰ and 0,0 ‰ for drivers under 21. If you drink more than that, you can get heavy fines, so it’s better not to risk it.

Are there paid roads in Germany?

In Germany, road toll does not exist – at least not if your vehicle weighs less than 3.5 tons. Regular cars are free to go on the highway and leave it wherever they please without having to pay anything.

Do I need a road map of Germany?

We usually use Google Maps to get around. As this will require you to either have access to data or download many maps before you leave, we recommend using maps.me if you come from outside the EU.

Can I do this itinerary in winter?

You absolutely can! Driving in Germany in winter is not very different from driving in summer.

In the South, you will often see snow in winter, while in the rest of Germany, temperatures are above zero on most days. Drive carefully if there’s any snow and ice covering the roads, and make sure your car has winter tyres. They are mandatory in winter, so double-check when getting your vehicle.

Also, be aware that you won’t be able to hike to Lake Schrecksee in winter. Instead, we recommend staying an extra day in Füssen and going for a winter hike or a ride in a sledge across the frozen lakes.

We hope you found this Germany itinerary for 10 days useful. We don’t like driving much and even we thought that exploring Germany by car was a fantastic experience.

As we live in Germany, we have lots of other resources on our blog to help you plan your trip. Check out the following posts which you’re going to find useful:

How to visit Neuschwanstein Castle – everything you need to know
How to spend a perfect day in Frankfurt
Hike to Lake Schrecksee and see Germany’s highest alpine lake
Coming in December? Find out how to visit the Frankfurt Christmas Market!

Until your next adventure!

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Ilona is a world traveller passionate about sharing her experiences and giving advice to fellow travellers. Having visited over 70 countries, she is always excited about her next trip.

Jeonju choco pie: everything you need to know, how to get to gamcheon culture village & unmissable things to do there, zurich to liechtenstein day trip – your complete guide.

What a great post! Thank you! Wurzburg is on our itinerary, but we’re also going to Dresden and Berlin. I haven’t seen much of the Black Forest, but perhaps another time.

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Switzerland to Germany drive

Switzerland to germany road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Switzerland to Germany. If you're planning a road trip to Germany, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am start at Switzerland drive for about 1 hour

12:13 pm Dornach stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:13 pm drive for about 2 hours

3:04 pm Strasbourg stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:04 pm drive for about 50 minutes

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours

10:00 am leave from Baden-Baden drive for about 1.5 hours

11:25 am Heidelberg stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:25 pm drive for about 1 hour

1:33 pm Frankfurt stay for about 1.5 hours and leave at 3:03 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

4:33 pm Römersberg stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:33 pm drive for about 1 hour

6:46 pm arrive at Germany

day 2 driving ≈ 5.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Dornach Strasbourg (36 answers) questions about Strasbourg: Classic, romantic hotel in Strasbourg, France? What to do in Strasbourg? Baden-Baden (12 answers) questions about Baden-Baden: baden-baden airport to strassbourg france Heidelberg (29 answers) Heidelberg Castle (3 mentions) Weinstube Schnitzelbank (2 mentions) questions about Heidelberg: What is your favorite restaurant in Heidelberg? Frankfurt (79 answers) Cider Taverns in Sachsenhausen (2 mentions) Städel Museum (2 mentions) Frankfurt Cathedral (2 mentions) Römerberg (2 mentions) questions about Frankfurt: What's fun in Frankfurt? Is a 4.5 hours layover at FRA enough time to explore Frankfurt? Must sees/do in Frankfurt, Germany??? Dinner Sunday Nigth 4h 45m layover, enough to meet a family member for a bite in concourse? Römersberg

What are some things to do in Germany?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Germany. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Germany.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Germany to Switzerland drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Switzerland to Germany . Or get a full Switzerland to Germany flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Switzerland well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Switzerland!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Switzerland to Germany

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Road Trip Switzerland To Italy: This Is The Best Road Pass To Take

Quick links, overview of bernina pass, driving bernina pass, here are the best stops on bernina pass.

The concept of the perfect road vacation can be summed up in a few words: driving, escaping, finding, and marveling. A road trip from Italy to Switzerland , or the opposite, is among the greatest in Europe so far. If tourists enjoy both nature and culture, they will be delighted by a variety of experiences along the way. Switzerland and Italy are fantastic destinations for any fly-drive travelers. They offer everything from winding mountain routes with stunning snow-covered towns and peaks in the Alps and taking a gondola tour or drinks at a rooftop bar in Venice overlooking the Grand Canal to the breathtaking view of Lake Lugano from the mountain tops. Bernina Pass takes vacationers from Italy's most opulent city to the lovely town of Basel, known for its creative offers and stunning riverbank terrain. Vacationers can set out on an extraordinary adventure from the chic city streets of Milan to the picturesque Alps and old castles of Switzerland. They will have the opportunity to go to Lake Como , St. Moritz, Zurich, Chur, Bern, and the charming Swiss Alps villages of Gruyères, Saas-Fee, and Montreux. Here is what tourists should know about Bernina Pass, the best road tourist should take.

Related: Swiss Alps Mountain Observatory: Truly At The Top Of Europe

The 365-day-a-year Bernina Pass, which connects the Italian resort town of Tirano with the Swiss ski resort of St. Moritz, is situated on the border between Italy and Switzerland. During Winter, there is a lot of snow on the roads, so vacationers should wear the right winter gear. Between October and June, tourists may have to stick to the open highways or look for mountain passes that are accessible all year round. Therefore, most of them prefer avoiding winter and organizing a road trip over the Alps in the early spring with the flower blossom or the late fall with the fiery foliage for more road options. During warm months, there may still be breathtaking winter scenery. Additionally, the road surface will be dry enough for safe and enjoyable driving.

Best time: Summer

If vacationers begin their journey in Switzerland, the ascent up to 7637.8 feet (2,328 meters) begins at Pontresina, which is less than 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) from St. Moritz . Following the lakes and Ospizio Bernina, tourists have the option of driving straight to the village of Tirano in Italy at the end of the Bernina Pass or turning left to enter Italy through the Livigno Pass. The fastest path is straight if they are traveling south to Italy; if they are heading toward the Stelvio Pass, they should make the left turn. If vacationers wish to go from Switzerland to Italy or the other way around during the summer, they may select from a number of beautiful roads. On the other side of Switzerland are the Splügen Pass, Ofen Pass, Umbrail Pass, and the Great St. Bernard Pass. It is good to know that Bernina Pass goes through the same spectacular scenery that the old Bernina Express train would have passed through.

A scenic road trip is not perfect without some significant stops to enhance it. Bernina Pass passes through exceptional towns with interesting attractions to rest at when driving from Switzerland to Italy.

Related: 8 Things You Can Do In The Italian Alps During The Summer

Visit St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz is a beautiful alpine town in Switzerland that is situated in the Engadin Valley and provides visitors with a variety of things to do and sights to see. The hamlet serves as the beginning point for the beautiful mountain route known as the Bernina Pass Panoramic Road, which travels through the Alps and provides amazing panoramas. For those who want to explore the Swiss Alps and take in the breathtaking winter and summer scenery, St. Moritz is the ideal location. The route leaves St. Moritz and travels through lakes, forests, meadows, and glaciers, providing stunning views of the mountainous terrain. It is a trip that will undoubtedly leave visitors with enduring memories.

Rest At Poschiavo

In less than an hour, drivers will travel 9.3 miles (15 kilometers) from Bernina Pass, Switzerland, to Poschiavo on an amazing road adventure. They will be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery and winding roads in the nation along the way. Views of the snow-capped mountains, luscious valleys, and sparkling lakes are fabulous. Tourists must plan beforehand since they never know when a part of the road may be closed. They should also pay close attention when driving because there are several steep slopes and curving roads as well. They are advised to take lots of pictures and take in the special ambiance of this beautiful tour, collecting as many memories as possible.

Conclude Your Road Trip At Tirano

The stunning Bernina Pass Panoramic Road is the ideal way to conclude at the lovely Italian village of Tirano. Those who enjoy culture and history should stop by Tirano. A must-see site is the 9th-century-founded Mustair Abbey . A visit to the historic San Rocco Church and the San Martino Church is also recommended. Moreover, the 16th-century Palazzo Salis is a fantastic location to tour for art enthusiasts.

Tirano has several activities available for individuals who appreciate the outdoors. The adjacent Lake Poschiavo is an excellent place for swimming and fishing, while the Valtellina Valley is a great place for riding and hiking. Additionally, it is an excellent place for wine sampling because there are so many vineyards around and a perfect way to wrap up a marvelous journey.

Road Trip Switzerland To Italy: This Is The Best Road Pass To Take

IMAGES

Ultimate Germany and Switzerland Itinerary (7-14 Days)
The Ultimate Swiss Alps Road Trip
The Perfect European Road Trip Route: 8 Countries in 7 Days
The Perfect Germany Road Trip Itinerary
The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
Itinerary for the Best Switzerland Road Trip in a Motorhome

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Road Trip Germany
Switzerland travel vlog part 1
Road Trip
Road Trip Germany To Nankana Sahib
Road trip in Switzerland #roadtrip #roadtonowhere #motivation #travel
Road Trip: Germany, Austria, & Liechtenstein- (ft. Dachau, Christmas Markets, & Neuschwanstein)

COMMENTS

Complete 7 Day Road Trip: Germany, Austria, Switzerland
This is the itinerary for you. It includes a 7 day road trip through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, but also, the sixth smallest country in the world, Liechtenstein! This is the perfect trip for you to make a good dent on your scratch map. The road trip begins and ends in Frankfurt.
Germany Austria Switzerland Itinerary: 10 Days on the Road
Germany Austria Switzerland 10-Day Itinerary. Day 1: Arrival in Zurich & Head to Lucerne. Day 2: Exploring Lauterbrunnen & Interlaken. Day 3: Exploring Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) Day 4: Explore Innsbruck. Day 5: Explore Salzburg. Day 6: Explore Salzburg/Berchtesgaden.
Europe 10 Day Trip to Germany Austria Switzerland Itinerary
Accommodation and Lodging. Your 10 Day Germany Austria and Switzerland Itinerary. 2 Days in Munich and One Day Trip from Munich. Day Trip: Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich. Salzburg 2 Days with a Day Trip. Salzburg Day 1. Salzburg Day 2. Salzburg Day Trip (Salzburg Day 3) Switzerland.
Germany & Switzerland Summer Road Trip: Munich to Geneva
There's no need to choose between Germany and Switzerland because, on this two-week trip, you can have it all. Start the adventure in the Bavarian city of Munich before driving to other southern German highlights, including Neuschwanstein Castle and Lake Constance. Then cross the border into Switzerland, where the mountains and lakes will impress you with their scale. Kayak on Lake Brienz, e ...
Ultimate Germany and Switzerland Itinerary (7-14 Days)
Also, you can give yourself more time to enjoy the actual traveling, as road tripping and train travel (at least in Switzerland) give you the option to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and you can take some rest and just soak in the beauty. Berlin - 1,5 Days. Munich - 1,5 Days. Neuschwanstein Castle & Füssen - 1 Day.
10 Day Europe Itinerary: Germany, Italy, Switzerland + Austria!
Itinerary Overview. Day 1: Overnight Flight. Day 2: Munich Sight Seeing. Day 3: Neuschwanstein Castle. Day 4: Drive to Venice + Lunch in Austria. Day 5: Explore Venice. Day 6: Drive to Swizerland + lunch in Verona. Day 7: Explore Switzerland + Mt. Pilatus. Day 8: Drive to Frankfurt.
Germany to Switzerland drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Germany to Switzerland. If you're planning a road trip to Switzerland, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
Germany & Switzerland Active Road Trip: Munich to Geneva
This 10-day tour of southern Germany and Switzerland is perfect for travelers wanting the freedom of driving while experiencing outdoor activities along the way. Kick off the trip with a Bavarian beer tour in Munich, then set off along the Romantic Road, stopping to cycle to the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle and paddleboard on Lake Constance.
The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks
The only Switzerland road trip itinerary you'll ever need. Follow this 2 week Switzerland itinerary to see the best of the country in 14 days. Map included! ... This 25 km (15.5 miles) long principality sandwiched between Switzerland, Austria, and Germany is small enough that you can really stay anywhere you like. However, for the purpose of ...
Top 5 Driving Routes in Germany, Austria & Switzerland
Here are some of the most beautiful driving routes in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, rich in history, culture and scenery. 1. Königssee to Bodensee, Germany ... Germany The German Fairy Tale Road . Known and loved the world around, the tales of the Brothers Grimm are childhood classics. ... As you travel, rise as high as 2,490 metres above ...
Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips
Interlaken. The drive from Zermatt to Interlaken takes you south through the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps. On route, you will pass the Weisshorngruppe. This mountain range is dominated by the Weisshorn peak, which reaches a height of 4,506 above sea level and provides a spectacular backdrop for your road trip.
Free Epic Germany Itinerary: 2 weeks plus Austria Switzerland France!
driving: Germany road trip itinerary. A road trip is the best way to do this trip. If you have reservations about driving in Germany don't. With some preparation, you won't have any trouble. 1-Do yourself a big favor and add the GPS onto your car rental, or bring one along. We have this GPS unit from Garmin (purchase Europe maps separately.)
14-Day Road Trip to Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia
Embark on an unforgettable 14-day multi-country road trip across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Czechia! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Zurich, Prague, and Nuremberg sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
Switzerland Road Trip Stop 2: Lucerne. Lucerne is often referred to as one of the prettiest cities in the world, and for good reason. Historians speculate on when this city was actually established, but it could have been as early as the 9th century. As such, it has some stellar architecture.
Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes
The German Fairy Tale Road. Frankfurt - Steinau - Marburg - Kassel - Gottingen - Hamelin - Bremen. Distance 660km. Duration 7 days. Drive Time 10 hours. This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car.
2 Week Itinerary Exploring Germany & Switzerland with Kids
Part 1: Swiss Museum of Transport. Part 2: SaurierMuseum - Dinosaur Museum in Zurich. Part 3: Guide to Visiting Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe. Part 4: Top Things to See in Vaduz, Liechtenstein. Part 5: a Guided walking tour of Zurich. Part 6: Snow in the Swiss Alps: Little Snow for Christmas. Part 7: Touring Lake Geneva with kids.
Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria: Charming Central Europe
Itinerary at a glance. I suggest spending at least 7 days to tackle this Central European itinerary: Day 1: Heidelberg, Germany. Day 2: Baden-Baden and Black Forest, Germany. Day 3: Strasbourg and Colmar, France. Day 4: Basel and Zurich, Switzerland. Day 5: Lake Constance, Germany and Fussen, Germany. Day 6: Innsbruck, Austria.
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Day 10-11: Geneva. If you're a lover of all things luxurious, then Geneva is the perfect place for you to wrap up your epic journey through Amsterdam, Germany, and Switzerland. From world-class shopping to Michelin-star red restaurants, Geneva has everything you need to indulge in the finer things in life.
Germany to Switzerland
The cheapest way to get from Germany to Switzerland costs only SFr 81, and the quickest way takes just 2½ hours. ... The distance between Germany and Switzerland is 303 km. The road distance is 845.2 km. ... Find all the transport options for your trip from Germany to Switzerland right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps ...
Switzerland Forum
Germany-Switzerland Road Trip. 6 years ago. Hi everyone, Planning a (last-minute) 15-Day trip from 15-30July to Germany + Switzerland + Prague. Me and wify (early 30s) arrive in Frankfurt on 15th afternoon, returning from Prague on 30th early morning. Last 3 days (27-29) we intend to spend in Prague so need help with the first 12 days planning.
Munich to Switzerland drive
and leave at 1:28 pm. drive for about 1.5 hours. 2:50 pm Schwyz. stay for about 1 hour. and leave at 3:50 pm. drive for about 38 minutes. 4:28 pm arrive at Switzerland. day 2 driving ≈ 3.5 hours. Recommended videos.
Germany Road Trip
Day 4: Blaubeuren & Munich. Today, you'll drive all the way to Munich. Instead of going the shortest route or following Germany's Romantic Road, though, take the highway A7 south towards Ulm and stop in Blaubeuren. Blaubeuren is famous for the Blautopf, an impossibly blue pond.
Switzerland to Germany drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Switzerland to Germany. If you're planning a road trip to Germany, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
Road Trip Switzerland To Italy: This Is The Best Road Pass To Take
The concept of the perfect road vacation can be summed up in a few words: driving, escaping, finding, and marveling. A road trip from Italy to Switzerland, or the opposite, is among the greatest ...

Complete 7 Day Road Trip: Germany, Austria, Switzerland

How is driving in Germany, Austria & Switzerland?

1 Night in Zurich

Where to stay in Frankfurt for one night?

Where to Stay in Nuremburg?

Where to Stay in Munich?

A visit to Schloss Neuschwanstein

1 night in Innsbruck

Where to stay in Innsbruck?

A quick stop in Liechtenstein

Where to Stay in Zurich for one night?

Where to Stay in Freiburg?

Black Forest Route

Where to Stay in Baden Baden?

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Germany Austria Switzerland Itinerary: 10 Days on the Road

Why Combine Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on the Same Trip?

They’re Close

They Have the Same Language

They’re Versatile and Have a Lot to Offer

Are 10 Days Enough for Visiting Germany, Austria, and Switzerland?

How to Get Around During a Germany, Austria, and Switzerland Trip?

Taking a Car

Taking a Train

TRIP OVERVIEW & MAP 10 DAYS SWITZERLAND | AUSTRIA | GERMANY ITINERARY

Germany Austria Switzerland 10-Day Itinerary

Hotel Recommendations

Day 2: Exploring Lauterbrunnen & Interlaken

WALK THROUGH THE BEAUTIFUL VALLEY FLOOR

GO PARAGLIDING IN INTERLAKEN

VISIT TRÜMMELBACH FALLS

HIKE ONE OF THE WATERFALL TRAILS

Day 3: Exploring Grindelwald and Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe)

GO TO THE TOP OF JUNGFRAUJOCH

EXPLORE GRINDELWALD

Day 4: Explore Innsbruck

Day 5: Explore Salzburg

Day 6: Explore Salzburg/Berchtesgaden

TAKE A BOAT RIDE AT KÖNIGSEE

VISIT THE EAGLE’S NEST

Day 7: Explore Around Salzburg: Hallstatt | Sound of Music Tour

Day 8: Explore Munich

EXPLORE MARIENPLATZ

CLIMB ST PETER’S TOWER & GLOCKENSPIEL SHOW

TAKE A WALKING TOUR

WALK THE ENGLISH GARDEN

DINNER AT A BREWERY

Day 9: Explore Neuschwanstein Castle

Day 10: Munich/Departure

Things to Keep In Mind When Traveling to Germany, Austria & Switzerland

Final Thoughts

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