European Road Trip: 11 Days in Germany and Switzerland
Early fall is the perfect time to take a trip to Europe! We had an amazing European road trip starting in Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest and ending in Zurich, Switzerland. With a group of 12, it took a lot of planning ahead and understanding what was necessary to cross the border in each country while also ensuring we were hitting the major destinations. Our itinerary felt manageable and easy to follow and it was a great way to see a few countries with a bigger group.
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One of our favorite things about Europe is the ease of getting around once you are there. Flights are cheap, driving around is easy (for the most part), and public transportation is incredible. We love a mix of all of the above, and fully took advantage on this European road trip. I have to say, having the freedom to hop in our car and go was ideal though!
To give you an idea about our group- the youngest was my niece who was 10 months old and the oldest were my grandparents, one of which was turning 80, with a broad mix of ages in the middle. It was important to check into experiences with a baby, as well as easy-to-access locations so my grandparents didn’t need to walk up 300 steps. There were a few long days, lots of walking, tiny towns and amazing views. We all had a wonderful time and traveled together so well!
I’m excited to show you how this large group traveled around Europe and made the most of a beautiful vacation. We used a lot of our PTO for the year, and the truancy board may have been upset with my daughter missing school- but it was the best educational vacation I could have asked for!
I will continue to add links as I write posts about our vacation and hope I can provide valuable insight to help you feel comfortable and confident to plan a European road trip for yourself!
The European Road Trip Itinerary
Starting in Munich, we enjoyed our 4 days to the fullest. We planned around Oktoberfest so our time in the actual city was limited, but we had a wonderful experience.
4 Days in Munich
Day 1: We flew from IAD in Washington, D.C., to Munich overnight. The Capitol One lounge in Dulles is incredible! It was a great way to kick-off our vacation. Shout out to credit card perks! I love taking advantage of overnight flights when the group is okay with it. It’s like you’re getting an extra vacation day- if you can fight the jet lag.
Day 2: Munich, Germany. Checked in to Hilton Park Munich then did a hop-on hop-off bus tour around the city
Day 3: Munich, Germany. A few hours checking out Oktoberfest and an afternoon/evening back on the hop-on hop-off bus tour seeing the other side of the city.
Day 4: Munich, Germany. Oktoberfest! I can’t wait to write about this day. What a bucket list experience!
Day 5: Munich, Germany. Exploring the city and visiting Dachau Concentration Camp
Heading to Switzerland
There is so much to do and see in Zurich! If you are only there for a few days, I think we followed a great itinerary, however, if you have more time- look into the near endless options to take day trips from Zurich.
Day 6: Road trip from Munich, Germany, to Zurich, Switzerland, with stops in Liechtenstein and Austria. It was a day I will never forget- we found the most beautiful little Swiss town on the drive! The views of the Alps and the farmlands were incredible. Such a great day!
Day 7: Zurich, Switzerland. Wandering the city, boat tours and lots of chocolate.
Day 8: Zurich, Switzerland. We took a day trip to Rhine Falls and Stein-Am-Rhein.
Day 9: Zurich, Switzerland. We booked a bus tour to Mt Rigi and Lucerne.
Day 10: Zurich, Switzerland. We had a day with no plans initially so we could decide what we wanted to see more of. We all voted on an afternoon in Mulhouse, France!
Day 11: Road trip from Zurich, Switzerland, to Schwangau, Germany. We toured the Neuschwanstein Castle and Castle Hohenschwangau and had a lovely time in Füssen.
Day 12: Road trip back to Munich to depart for the USA.
I’m really excited to add more detail to each of our days within their own posts. A trip like this is absolutely possible with a group of any size, with any ages and with any level of adventures spirit. While we spent most days together, there were several times when the groups would split off to explore something else. One morning two of the guys left before dawn to hike the Alps and were able to see some incredible views!
I love finding great opportunities for anyone to enjoy regardless of limited PTO and school schedules.
Have you ever taken a European road trip?
