European Road Trip- Germany, Austria, Switzerland Itinerary
Embarking on a journey through the heart of Europe was a dream come true. A European road trip should be on every bucket list! From the bustling cityscapes of Frankfurt and Munich to the tranquil beauty of Bregenz and Zurich, each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural splendor. Juggling PTO and school holidays may only give you enough time to visit a few places on this list, but no matter what, I highly suggest at least one city in Germany and ending in Zurich. The personal experiences and memories made along the way are truly priceless.
For a seamless journey, I recommend an overnight flight into Frankfurt then renting a car. While European cities have excellent public transportation, having your own vehicle for this cross-country adventure offers the freedom to set your own pace and explore hidden gems. We certainly enjoyed the flexibility of our own car, especially in Switzerland, where every turn revealed a new breathtaking landscape.
The overall itinerary includes two full weeks of time across five cities in Germany, Switzerland & Austria. It should feel like a great mix of big cities and smaller towns with stops in some of the most beautiful places along the way.
Let’s start with the three cities you should visit in Germany, with your starting point in Frankfurt.
Frankfurt – A Modern Metropolis
Frankfurt, Germany, is one of the oldest German cities. You may be surprised to find that it offers a blend of modernity alongside its history, making it a fascinating destination to explore. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage and a stunning skyline punctuated by sleek skyscrapers.
What to Do:
1. Explore the historic Römerberg square and the Römer, Frankfurt’s medieval old town center. Also known as Altstadt, or Old Town Frankfurt, is home to beautiful churches, a lovely public square, and Kleinmarkthalle, a nice food hall in the city. While the Alstadt was destroyed in the war, it has been rebuilt over the years.
2. Palmengarten is a glass-domed tropical oasis where you may least expect it. You will see tropical plants and flowers from all over the world within this beautiful garden.
3. Take a boat tour along the Main River for stunning views of the city’s skyline.
4. Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Städel Museum, home to a remarkable art collection dating back to the 17th century.
5. Shop and dine along the vibrant Zeil shopping promenade, a paradise for enthusiasts of retail therapy and culinary delights.
6, Visit Frankfurts Imperial Cathedral is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
7. Climb the Main tower where you will see incredible views of the city.
8. Stop by the The Museum of Modern Art, which looks like a slice of cake from the road, will give you a glimpse of art from the 1960s to the present.
9. The Frankfurt Historical Museum is located in the heart of Frankfurt, Germany and it offers a fascinating insight into the city’s history and culture. With its extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits, the museum provides an enriching experience for visitors interested in delving into Frankfurt’s rich past.
10. The Senckenberg Nature Museum is a great option for anyone excited to learn more about the natural world.
11. Take a hike on the Three Castles trail which is around 7 miles long and a short drive from the city.
12. See a piece of the Berlin Wall on display near the Goethe House.
Consider the Frankfurt Card if you plan to visit multiple museums and use public transportation. You will receive the benefits of free and unlimited travel within the public transit system (trams, buses, underground metros, trains, and regional trains).
Where to Stay:
1. Melia Hotel Frankfurt City – A luxurious hotel with modern amenities and breathtaking city views.
2. Roomers – A stylish boutique hotel offering chic accommodations and a vibrant nightlife scene.
3. JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt – large hotel room options, including many with spectacular views of the city.
4. Ruby Louise Hotel – a great location and a nice size for a pleasant stay.
Time in The City:
With a two-week total itinerary for this entire tour of destinations, I would plan for two days in Frankfurt, driving on the evening of your second day to the next destination.
Nuremberg is a 2.5-hour drive from Frankfurt.
Nuremberg – A City of History and Tradition
Nuremberg, a city with a rich history and a strong tradition, offers visitors the chance to explore well-preserved medieval architecture and significant famous landmarks. From the imposing Nuremberg Castle to the charming old town with its medieval architecture, there is much to discover. Additionally, a visit to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds offers a poignant look into the city’s history, providing valuable insights and understanding. Lastly, the local culinary scene, especially the iconic sausages at the historic Bratwurstglöcklein restaurant, and the bustling Hauptmarkt square with its lively market stalls, provide a delightful experience for visitors.
What to Do:
1. Explore the imposing Nuremberg Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the hilltop. It’s the #1 tourist attraction in the city, and for great reason!
2. Wander through the charming old town, through the town hall and admire the well-preserved medieval architecture.
3. Visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds for a poignant look into the city’s history.
4. You can visit Courtroom 600 in the Nuremberg Palace of Justice, which is where many members of the Nazi leadership team were subject for their crimes. Look into this ahead of time as it is not open to the public when court is in session.
5. Discover the local culinary scene and take a guided tour. Most walking tour options will stop at the historic Bratwurstglöcklein restaurant, known for its iconic sausages, and many more food and drink options – like gingerbread, along the way.
6. Stroll through the bustling Hauptmarkt square and peruse the lively market stalls.
7. See the St. Sebaldus Church which is intricately designed, offers beautiful views, and is full of history. Twice a week you can book a tour guide to take you through the church and often to the top viewing points.
8. See the St. Lorenz Church a stunning medieval church in Nuremberg, known for its impressive Gothic architecture and beautiful artwork.
9. The German National Museum, located in Nuremberg, is renowned for its extensive collection of cultural and historical artifacts from Germany.
10. Neues Museum (Modern Art Museum) which opened in 2000.
11. Stop for photos on Weibgerbergasse Street where there are over 20 half timbered houses
12. Hangman’s Bridge in Nuremberg, also known as Henkersteg, is a picturesque pedestrian bridge that dates back to medieval times. The bridge, with its charming architecture, provides a stunning view of the city and has become a popular tourist attraction.
13. Handwerkerhof, a fairytale village within a village.
14. The Nuremberg Toy Museum has been labeled the best places for the child at heart in the world.
Where to Stay:
1. Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg – A centrally located hotel with elegant accommodations and excellent service.
2. Park Plaza Nuremberg – A contemporary hotel offering stylish rooms and a convenient location near major attractions.
3. Gideon Hotel – a minimalist hotel with a great location
4. Romantik Hotel Gasthaus Rottner – A beautiful building in a quaint courtyard with food options
Time in The City:
With a two-week total itinerary for this entire European road trip of destinations, I would plan for one full day in Nuremberg.
You’re then off to Southern Germany to visit the beautiful city of Munich.
Munich – The Capital of Bavaria
Munich, the capital of the German state of Bavaria, is a city steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) with its famous Glockenspiel, Munich offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern urban energy. The city has a deep connection to its Bavarian roots, evident in traditional events like Oktoberfest and the thriving beer garden culture. Munich is also home to world-class museums, such as the Alte Pinakothek and the Deutsches Museum, making it a haven for art and history enthusiasts. With its picturesque parks, historic landmarks, and dynamic atmosphere, Munich captivates visitors with its timeless allure and dynamic spirit.
What to Do:
1. Explore the grand beauty when you enter Nymphenburg Palace and its meticulously landscaped gardens. This is a unesco world heritage site if you are interested in learning more.
2. Savor a stein of beer and soak in the lively atmosphere at the iconic Hofbräuhaus. This is the oldest brewery in Munich!
3. Visit the impressive Residenz, former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, with its opulent interiors.
4. Experience the vibrant Viktualienmarkt, a bustling food and crafts market in the heart of the city.
5. Take a serene stroll along the serene English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks.
6. Visit St. Peter’s church with beautiful views from the tower.
7. See the Glockenspiel in New Town Hall. The Rathaus-Glockenspiel is this amazing large mechanical clock situated in Marienplatz Square, right in the heart of Munich, Germany. It’s famous for its life-size characters and twice a day, it puts on a delightful show, re-enacting scenes from Munich’s history.
8. Walk to Asam Church, the first large baroque building in the city, known for its ornate interior.
9. Climb the hill for a great view around Olympiapark. Olympiapark in Munich is a sprawling park and event venue built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. It offers a range of free and paid attractions including a stadium, a tower with panoramic views, a lake, and a vibrant parkland.
10. Tour the BMW museum. The BMW Museum in Munich showcases the rich history and innovative advancements of the renowned Bavarian motor company, offering an immersive experience for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Where to Stay:
1. Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München – A luxurious hotel offering elegant accommodations and unparalleled hospitality.
2. Platzl Hotel – A charming Bavarian-style hotel located in the historic city center, ideal for immersing in Munich’s heritage.
3. Louis Hotel – very close to St. Peter’s in the perfect location to see many of the Munich sights.
4. Hilton Munich Park – an amazing location and a great place to stay near English Garden. Some rooms have lovely views of the city.
Time in The City:
If you are visiting Munich during Oktoberfest, I recommend staying for at least four days. If you are visiting at another time of the year when a fest isn’t an important aspect of your time in Germany, I suggest spending at least two days in Munich. You can read more about an ideal four-day Munich itinerary here or how to spend two days in Munich here.
No matter how much time you have, I highly recommend a hop-on, hop-off tour. This is an amazing tour of the city with transportation between many of the places included above.
Other places to consider while in Germany:
This is not an all-inclusive list of the popular destination options in Germany. In fact, you would never be able to see everything in just a few days—probably not even in a few months. I recommend the following day trips or extended stays if you have additional time in the country.
Day trips or Tour Experience From Munich
1. Neuschwanstein Castle– you can book a guided tour day trip from Munich or make a stop on your journey.
3. A day trip to explore the Dokumentation Obersalzberg museum and Eagle’s Nest.
4. Book a customized tour with a local guide to see more of Munich and learn about its history.
If you start in Hamburg, your next central city could be either Cologne or Berlin. Both options would include many small towns in between and will provide a great opportunity to find a local restaurant, grab a traditional meal, and either stay overnight or continue the journey. From Cologne or Berlin, you can continue to Frankfurt, follow the above itinerary of Frankfurt to Nuremberg, and end your German stint in Munich.
After your stay in Germany, you will begin your drive to Switzerland, with a stop in Austria. You may even see glimpses of the Bavarian Alps on your journey.
Bregenz – Serenity by the Lake
Bregenz, a picturesque town located in the western part of Austria, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to Roman times. As the capital of the Vorarlberg region, Bregenz has been shaped by its strategic location along the shores of Lake Constance and its proximity to the Swiss and German borders. The town has evolved from a small Roman settlement into a vibrant cultural center known for its annual Bregenz Festival, which features spectacular open-air opera performances. Bregenz’s history is also intertwined with its stunning natural surroundings, including the nearby Pfänder mountain and the beautiful Bodensee, or Lake Constance, which have contributed to the town’s allure as a popular tourist destination.
While I recommend this as a short stop on your journey to Switzerland, there is still much to see and do in the town.
What to Do:
1. Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Constance and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade.
2. Visit the Bregenz Festival stage, a spectacular floating structure on the lake, and admire its architectural marvel.
3. Explore the Kunsthaus Bregenz, a contemporary art museum known for its striking architecture and thought-provoking exhibits.
4. Take a cable car ride to the top of the Pfänder mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
5. Indulge in a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Constance, taking in the tranquil landscapes from a different perspective.
Where to Stay:
If you decide to make your stay in Austria a bit longer, and plan for an overnight stay, I recommend these accommodation options:
1. Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand – A charming lakeside hotel offering modern comforts and picturesque views of the lake and mountains.
2. Hotel Schwärzler – A stylish hotel with comfortable amenities and a convenient location for exploring Bregenz and its surroundings.
3. Hotel Kleiner Löwe – An excellent location for sightseeing and dining.
Other places to consider while in Austria:
If you have additional time and want to see more cities in Austria, consider the distance from Munich and then Bregenz to get you back on track towards Switzerland.
1. The city of Salzburg is 1.5 hours from Munich and a 3.5-hour drive to Bregenz. Perfect for Sound of Music fans who want a glimpse into where the film was created.
2. The Austrian Capital of Vienna is around 5 hours from Munich and a 6.5-hour drive to Bregenz. If you visit, I highly recommend going to Kunsthistorisches Museum for an excellent tour.
Zurich – Elegance and Sophistication
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Nestled at the northwestern tip of Lake Zurich, the city boasts a picturesque waterfront and a captivating blend of medieval and modern architecture. With its well-preserved old town and an abundance of cultural institutions, Zurich is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. The city has evolved from its early days as a prehistoric settlement to a bustling financial center and a hub for arts, culture, and innovation. Rich in history and brimming with contemporary energy, Zurich offers visitors a delightful mix of old-world charm and cosmopolitan flair.
We absolutely loved everything about Zurich and the other cities we visited in Switzerland. The drive from Austria was incredible with views of the Swiss Alps, a stop in a beautiful quaint town, and the driving along the beautiful alpine lakes. The travel time from Bregenz is around an hour and a half, though it took us around 5 hours due to our stops. We added another quick stop in a new to us country- Liechtenstein as it was nearly on the way.
Even with driving from Germany through two additional countries and ending in Switzerland, the whole European road trip only took around 10 hours in one day. While this may seem long, we truly had the best experience.
What to Do:
1. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine shores of Lake Zurich, enjoying the picturesque views and tranquil ambiance.
2. Explore the cultural treasures at the Kunsthaus Zurich, home to an exceptional collection of modern life and contemporary art.
3. Wander through the charming lanes of the old town, admiring the well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant street life.
4. Visit the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues, for a dose of luxury retail therapy.
5. Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich, marveling at the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes from the water.
6. Take a chocolate tour at Lindt, the home of chocolate.
7. Enjoy a fondue meal with delicious fresh veggies and allll the cheese.
8. Spend an evening along Lake Zurich with a bottle of wine and snacks from a local market. There is no shortage of great food with cheese while in Switzerland!
9. Take a day trip to the Black Forest to be in awe of the country’s natural beauty.
Where to Stay:
1. Baur au Lac – A luxurious hotel offering refined accommodations and a prime location near the lake and city center.
2. Widder Hotel – A unique boutique hotel with individually designed rooms and a blend of historic and contemporary influences. The views from the balconies are amazing!
3. Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich – A five-star hotel with a great location near the central station, on the banks of the River Limmat, and local to the best shopping in Zurich.
4. Central Plaza Hotel – The name says it all, a great location to see everything in Zurich from your door
Other Places to Consider in Switzerland:
If you have more time in Zurich and want to explore some other areas of the country, check out this post about day trips from Zurich. The post includes highlights like where to see clear views of Pilatus, afternoons in quaint villages, and visits to other cities like St Gallen or Lake Lucerne.
Each of the above destinations have left an indelible mark on me, offering a long list of experiences that have enriched my understanding of European culture and heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the cities’ vibrant energy, the natural landscapes’ tranquil beauty, or love a quaint small town, this European adventure has something to offer for every type of traveler. If you are interested in following our journey, you can read through how our group traveled from Germany to Switzerland in this post.
