trip to switzerland germany and austria

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!

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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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Where to Travel in Germany, Austria & Switzerland in 2 Weeks

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

Wondering how to see Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on one trip? In this guide we show you 3 perfect starting points and share ideas for what to include in your itinerary.

Planning a trip to Germany? Wonder if it’s possible to include a visit to neighboring Switzerland and Austria?

We’ve combined trips to Germany with visits to both Austria and Switzerland. In this guide we give you itinerary ideas from 3 different starting points in Germany so you can easily include beautiful Austria and Switzerland in your trip.

Get ready to discover charming medieval towns, breathtaking natural landscapes, and historic cities in all three countries!

Join our FREE Germany Trip Planning Facebook Group!

• 1 Where Can I Find The Above Map?
• 2 Can I Go To Switzerland & Austria From Germany?
• 3 Starting Point #1: Southern Germany
• 4 Starting Point#2: Germany’s Black Forest
• 5 Starting Point #3: Lake Constance (Bodensee)
• 6 Germany, Austria & Switzerland in One Trip
• 7 Not Sure Where To Begin With Planning Your Trip?

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner , and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Can I Go To Switzerland & Austria From Germany?

This is a question I’m frequently asked in one-on-one trip planning consults . The quick answer? Yes, it’s totally possible. I’ve helped lots of clients create an unforgettable itinerary that combines Germany with one or both of these beautiful countries.

The most important thing to consider when planning your own route is your starting point in Germany. That’s why we’ve organized the itinerary ideas below around 3 convenient starting points in Germany.

Not only are these starting points popular destinations, they’re also convenient for hopping across the border into Switzerland and Austria. We also suggest where you can go in both Austria and Switzerland so you can plan an unforgettable trip.

Starting Point #1: Southern Germany

Bavaria, a beautiful region in southern Germany, is the easiest starting point for a journey through both Germany and Austria. Here are destinations to consider adding to your itinerary.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner , be sure to use the Trip Planning Spreadsheet, City Cheatsheets, and Germany Planning Map to help you plan your itinerary.

One of the best places to start your journey is Munich, the largest city in southern Germany. The Bavarian capital is known for many things including Oktoberfest , historic sights, delicious beer and food, and excellent iconic views and scenery.

Because there’s so much to do and see in walkable Munich, we recommend staying for a couple of days — at the very minimum 2 days. This will allow you to get a good taste of Munich by seeing most of the city’s highlights in the center of town and something a bit further out.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s best to stay somewhere in the city center Altstadt (Old Town). This way most of the main tourist sites will be within walking distance or a short ride away via public transportation. Read our full guide with recommendations for the best hotels in Munich , including where we’ve stayed.

If you stay in the Altstadt (Old Town), you can spend a day visiting historic buildings like the Neus Rathaus (New Town Hall) and the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) in Marienplatz. Make sure to stop by the central food market, Viktuellenmarkt, and the Munich Residenz, the biggest city palace in Germany (my favorite part of our palace visit was the Cuvilliés Theatre).

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

After stopping by the palace, you can easily make your way to the beautiful Englischer Garten (English Garden) and grab drinks at the famous Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower Beer Garden) or simply take a relaxing stroll through this famous park.

The next day, depending on how much time you have, you can visit a sight that is a bit further from the center. One suggestion to head out to Nymphenburg Palace to admire its beautiful gardens and luxurious pavilions. Another half-day activity is taking a guided tour to the memorial site of Dachau Concentration Camp for a moving and educational experience.

Another option? Make Munich your home base and stay for several days. One of the reasons Munich is such a popular destination in Germany is because there are so many amazing day trip options nearby.

The most popular day trip is without a doubt Neuschwanstein Castle . Millions of people each year visit Germany to see this beautiful castle straight out of a fairy tale nestled in the Bavarian Alps. No matter when you visit, the castle and its landscapes are gorgeous year round, and especially magical during the winter season.

For more day trip ideas, read our full guide on the best day trips to take from Munich. Many of the locations below can be done as a day trip from Munich before making your way to Austria.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen comprises two small towns that have grown together and are located about an hour or so away from Munich. Both towns are well known for being a hotspot for winter sports as they regularly host skiing championships (when there’s enough snow). 

This area is beautiful year round and can be visited on a day trip from Munich or you can spend a couple days here before venturing into Austria. There’s a lot to do around Garmisch-Partenkirchen so you’ll easily find enough to fill 2 or more days.

If you like hiking, you’ll love this area because Garmisch is surrounded by amazing mountains, hiking paths and natural areas, most notably Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm), Eibsee lake, and Zugspitze, which is Germany’s highest peak. There you’ll find sweeping views of the Alps and Germany’s highest beer garden.

Partnach Gorge is easy to reach by bus or on foot from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Zugspitze and Eibsee lake are about 40 minutes away by train or bus. You can also drive to each.

You can also have a laidback afternoon, evening or full day in Garmisch and Partenkirchen. Walk around each small town taking in the alpine scenery, ornate churches, traditional painted Bavarian houses, and the feel of the cobblestone streets.

Be sure to stop for a meal, beer or Kaffee und Kuchen. Tip: we had a delicious coffee, tea, and freshly made “house cake” at Wildkaffee Cafe.

Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is another of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations. It lies within the breathtaking Berchtesgaden Alps and is surrounded on three sides by Austria. Salzburg is only a short drive (around 45 minutes) away from Berchtesgaden, making it the perfect next stop as you make your way from Germany to Austria.

Berchtesgaden has a unique atmosphere thanks to its beautiful location surrounded by the mountains. We recommend staying 2-3 days to make the most of it.

Known for its association with World War II, there are many historical and educational sites to visit like Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus in German) and the Obersalzberg Documentation Center.

Originally built as a mountaintop retreat during the Nazi regime, Eagle’s Nest now serves as a popular tourist destination for the panoramic views of the stunning alpine scenery. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, then Obersalzberg Documentation Center is a must-visit (currently closed for renovation). 

For more outdoor activities, make sure to visit the Berchtesgaden National Park. It’s rich with natural landscapes like rugged mountains, narrow gorges, and pristine lakes. We recommend visiting the Königsee, taking the Jennerbahn cable car, and hiking from Ramsau to Hintersee lake. If you have extra free time, the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines are also a fun site to add to your itinerary.

Click here to see our recommendations for where to stay in Berchtesgaden and more information about what to do and see in this beautiful area.

The city of Salzburg is the easiest entry way into Austria as the travel time from Berchtesgaden is only around 45 minutes away by car (you can also take the train or bus). This picturesque city is known around the world as the setting of the musical “ The Sound of Music ” and as the birthplace of Mozart.

Salzburg’s historic center houses many of the city’s important landmarks and it’s small enough so that they are within walking distance of each other. You can easily spend a day (or more) wandering the beautiful squares and streets of the downtown area. You’ll also find Mozart’s former residence, the Salzburg Cathedral, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. During December you can visit their beautiful Christmas market.

Zell am See

Located around an hour away from Salzburg, Zell am See would be the ideal next stop in your trip into Austria. This town lies on one of the nicest alpine lakes, Lake Zell. The lakeside town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with a wide range of activities throughout the year.

In the summer, visitors can indulge in hiking, biking, and water sports on the lake, while in winter, the town transforms into a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding. You can also explore the town square and lively pedestrian zone to do some shopping or try some exquisite Austrian pastries and desserts at a coffee shop.

After a scenic drive of around 2 hours, you’ll make your way to Innsbruck. This city nestled in the heart of the Alps is famous for being a winter sports destination. One of the main reasons to visit are for the world-class ski resorts around the city but there’s also so much more to see and do in Innsbruck.

One of Innsbruck’s highlights is its charming and picturesque cityscape, especially with the backdrop of the Nordkette mountain range and the River Inn. In Old Town, make sure to visit the famous Golden Roof, a building with a shimmering roof adorned with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, and the majestic Hofburg Palace.

You can also take a cable car into the Nordkette and enjoy the beautiful panoramic views. We once took the cable car to the top, then walked back down to Innsbruck. While it was a long walk and we were quite sore for a few days, it was a lot of fun!

Another option in this itinerary would be to go to Vienna from Salzburg. Even though the train ride is only a about 2.5 hours and 3 hours by car, we recommend spending a couple of days here. A day trip would not be enough time to really enjoy everything there is to do and see in the Austrian capital.

Vienna is a memorable destination that combines history, architecture, and culture. Some must-see landmarks include Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Hofburg. The Vienna State Opera is also a must for opera and classical music lovers. Vienna is also home to world-class museums like the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Belvedere Palace, and Albertina.

If you have a couple weeks to travel, you could see most or even all of these places in Germany and Austria by car or train.

Starting Point#2: Germany’s Black Forest

Located in the southwestern region of Germany, the Black Forest is an ideal starting point for exploring both Germany and Switzerland. We recommend making one place in the Black Forest your home base and exploring the rest through day trips.

Here are some beautiful places to add to your Germany and Switzerland itinerary.

Baden-Baden

Situated in the northern region of the Black Forest, the old resort town of Baden-Baden offers a wide selection of relaxing activities and rejuvenating retreats for all sorts of travelers. Renowned for its soothing natural hot springs, extensive spa and wellness facilities, and therapeutic thermal baths, Baden-Baden invites everyone to unwind and recharge after a long day of traveling.

Aside from its luxurious wellness offerings, the town is also great for sports enthusiasts looking to do something active like hiking, biking or spending a day in the prestigious golf courses and equestrian clubs.

Triberg im Schwarzwald 

Another great place to go in the Black Forest is Triberg, located just over an hour away from Baden-Baden. This smaller town is closely associated with the famous Black Forest cuckoo clocks! You can even find the world’s largest cuckoo clock here. 

Triberg is also home to the Triberg Waterfalls, a series of waterfalls near the Gutach river and considered to be one of Germany’s highest waterfalls. It very pretty and if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of the famous red squirrels.

Although this town leans touristy, Triberg is worth adding to your itinerary if you’re looking for a home base that has a good mix between natural landscapes and tourist attractions. You really feel like you’re in the Black Forest in Triberg.

If you’d like to stay in this general area but would prefer a different town, check out Gengenbach. It’s a lovely small town with a delightful market square and cute side streets. From Gengenbach you can easily head into the Black Forest – be sure to stop by the Black Forest Open Air Museum and see what life on a Black Forest farm used to be like. We loved it!

Freiburg im Breisgau

If you’re looking for a pleasant stay in the Black Forest, consider Freiburg. It’s our favorite home base! I lived here for a little while when I was in grad school and am always happy to spend time in Freiburg.

Freiburg is in the heart of the Black Forest and is aptly known as the “capital of the Black Forest.” It’s also the sunniest spot in Germany.

A vibrant university town, Freiburg features a mixture of Gothic and modern architecture, as seen in the Old Town. One of the most popular attractions in Freiburg is the Münster Cathedral. This impressive Gothic structure dates back to 1200 AD and boasts one of Germany’s largest church bells. Another must-see is Schlossberg, a scenic lookout offering sweeping views of the city’s iconic red-tiled rooftops.

One of the reasons we love making Freiburg our Black Forest home base is that not only is there a lot to see and do in Freiburg, it’s easy to visit locations all over the region by train and car. For our recommendations on where to stay and to read more about all there is to do and see in this beautiful town, read our Freiburg guide here.

Basel is conveniently located near the borders of Germany, Switzerland, and France. It’s only about an hour by train or car from Freiburg, so it’s a great day trip if you just want to get a quick taste of Switzerland. You could also make a short stop in Basel before heading further into Switzerland.

Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is a quaint riverside city with lots to offer. Some of the city’s most important landmarks include the Basel Minster, the medieval streets of the Old Town, the Zoo Basel, Kunstmuseum Basel, and Marktplatz.

Continuing your journey into Switzerland, only an hour away from Basel is Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. The city is an important global hub for banking and finance, but it’s also rich with history and beautiful architecture.

This is best seen in the picturesque streets of the central Altstadt where you’ll also find famous historic landmarks like Lindenhof, Grossmünster, Kunsthaus Zürich, and Fraumünster. After sightseeing, you can spend the rest of the day strolling along the calm promenade of Lake Zurich, admiring the scenic surroundings, and trying out delicious Swiss chocolate.

Zurich also has a good airport to fly in and out of. We flew from the US to Zurich once when we spent a couple weeks in the Swiss Alps and it was super convenient. If you fly home from Zurich it’s easy to spend a day there before heading home.

Lucerne, Interlaken & Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are a highlight of any Switzerland trip and we recommend taking 3-5 days to do this leg of the journey. 

From Zurich, first make your way to Lucerne, which is around an hour drive away. Lucerne is worth spending at least a full day in. It’s home to famous landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge (the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe), the colorful Old Town, and the Swiss Museum of Transport.

Lucerne is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes like Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus, a mountain peak with a restaurant and sweeping alpine views that’s reached by cable cars or railway. 

After Lucerne, your final destination could be the Interlaken area, arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world. The fastest way to get to Interlaken is by car which is around an hour away. But if you’re looking for a unique experience, then you can opt for a scenic train ride on the Luzern-Interlaken Express. 

Interlaken is an important destination in the Bernese Oberland region of the SwissAlps and is considered to be the main gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of this region. The town is situated between two lakes, Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. A great way to explore is by taking a boat cruise. Interlaken is also surrounded by mountains, the most famous peaks being Jungfrau (known as the Top of Europe), Eiger, and Mönch.

You could also choose a small village to base yourself in and then explore the area by car. We did that once and loved the experience of being in a tiny alpine village, as well as driving through the Alps and visiting places like St. Moritz, Davos, Lugano, Grindelwald, Gimmelwald, Wintertur, St. Gallen, and more. We even stopped in a tiny village that we think Aaron’s family is originally from!

Starting Point #3: Lake Constance (Bodensee)

Lake Constance might be more of an unknown hidden gem for tourists coming from outside Germany, but it’s a favorite for locals and also a good starting point to travel to Switzerland from Germany. 

Konstanz is the biggest city on the shores of Lake Constance. It’s a great starting point for this region since there’s many a lot of different things to see and do. You can start by exploring Niederburg, the well-preserved medieval Old Town district and home to the city’s main church, Konstanz Munster. 

Don’t miss a boat trip to Mainau Island, also known as the Island of Flowers, where you can immerse yourself in stunning botanical gardens and explore the Baroque Mainau Castle. For those looking for a relaxing treat, make sure to check out the Bodensee-Therme Konstanz, a thermal spa right on the shore of the lake.

If you happen to be in Konstanz for New Year’s you’re in for a treat. We celebrated here once and had so much fun welcoming the new year with everyone else in the Old Town and on the shores of the lake.

Meersburg is a small town near Konstanz, around 40 minutes away by car and ferry. It’s surrounded by vineyards on the northern banks of Lake Constance, so it’s perfect for vineyard tours and wine tastings. 

It’s also known for its medieval charm. The Old Town is home to two medieval castles: the Meersburg Castle (considered to be one of the oldest inhabited castles in Germany) and Neues Schloss Meersburg, which houses several museums. Meersburg also boasts of an expanse of half-timbered houses, and two medieval town gates, which are remnants of the ancient town fortification.

Lindau is another well-known summer destination in the Lake Constance area. It’s around an hour drive south from Meersburg. It’s also quite near the Swiss cantons of St. Gallen and Thurgau and the Austrian state of Vorarlberg, so you can easily cross to the other two countries from here.

The best time to visit Lindau is in the spring or summer months because the gardens and outdoor spaces are in full bloom. So if you’re visiting during these seasons, we recommend staying for a few days and enjoying the scenery and even participating in outdoor activities like sailing, hiking, swimming, and cycling. 

The Old Town and Lindau Harbor are other two places worth visiting. The harbor has amazing views of the lake and the surrounding Swiss and Austrian Alps. It’s also where you can find interesting sites like the Lindau Lighthouse and Bavarian Lion sculpture.

An hour away south from Lindau is Bregenz. This city is the capital of the Austrian state of Vorarlberg and lies on the east and southeast shores of Lake Constance. It’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes like the Pfänder mountain and the Rhine valley leading to the German Alpine foothills.

One of the highlights of the city is the Bregenz Festival (Bregenzer Festspiele). This performing arts festival is held annually in the summer around July to August. It’s a unique festival because of the venue – a floating stage is set up on the lake to showcase spectacular opera and musical performances. Aside from the festival, the Old Town features a lot of Gothic and Baroque architecture. Some important landmarks include the Martinsturm, a medieval tower with great city views, and the Kunsthaus Bregenz.

To make your way to Switzerland, all you have to do is drive a little over 30 minutes to the west to St. Gallen. This Swiss city has a rich history being founded in the 7th century and it has now evolved into a large urban center in Eastern Switzerland.

The main highlight of St. Gallen is the Abbey of St. Gall, a UNESCO World Heritage site built sometime in the 8th century. The abbey complex includes a magnificent Baroque-style cathedral, a library with ancient manuscripts and rare books, and a picturesque courtyard. In the city center, you’ll also find Drei Weieren, a collection of ponds that now serves as a natural swimming area with a magnificent view over the historic city. It’s a popular local recreation area for the city inhabitants to swim and picnic in during summer and even ice skate during the colder winter months.

Your last stop in this itinerary would be Zurich. Depending on how much time you have, you can either make this into a day trip or stay for a couple of days. If you have the time, you could also venture further into Lucerne and Interlaken, as discussed in the previous section, or head north to the Black Forest or France.

Germany, Austria & Switzerland in One Trip

The above proposed itineraries combine Germany with either Austria or Switzerland. But what if you do want to see Germany, Austria, and Switzerland all in one trip?

The good news is that it’s possible! That said, it’s important you plan every leg of your trip in advance. You should decide how much time to spend in each city/town, find accommodation as needed, and calculate how much time you’ll be traveling in between each destination. It’ll be rewarding and you’ll be sure to make travel memories you’ll never forget!

To see all 3 countries in one trip we suggest starting in Bavaria (consider flying into Munich) like we discussed in the first section. From Munich, you can add day trips to Neuschwanstein and/or Garmisch. Then, head to Berchtesgaden and then into Austria by going to Salzburg first and then Innsbruck. 

From there you head could go to Zurich, Switzerland. You could also alternatively stop in the Gimmelwald area to explore the Alps or head to Lucerne instead. Depending on how much time you want to spend in Switzerland, we also recommend going down to Lugano to experience Italian-speaking Switzerland or Geneva for the French-speaking area.

The last part of your trip would be to make your way back to Germany. This time you’ll head into the Black Forest region which is near the Swiss border. Choosing which towns or cities to stop by all ultimately depends on your time and personal preference! Make sure to read our complete Black Forest guide to help you choose the best things to do and see in the region.

Not Sure Where To Begin With Planning Your Trip?

We’ve got you covered! The interactive planning map, how to videos, and itinerary guides in our popular Germany Travel Planner will help you plan an a stress-free, personalized, and unforgettable trip. Or book a one-on-one trip planning consult with Cate!

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

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TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

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Complete 7 Day Road Trip: Germany, Austria, Switzerland

• September 22, 2022 April 3, 2023

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.

Can’t get enough of Germany? Then why not consider Berlin? 3 Day Berlin Itinerary: The Best Spots in Berlin

Love to tour around, why not get in 3 of the most popular cities in Italy in 7 days with my 1 week Rome, Florence & Venice itinerary.

Or take a week to admire the stunning beaches, ancient sites and recreate scenes from Game of Thrones in Croatia with my 7 Day Split Croatia Itinerary

• 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.

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.

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

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

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,

10 Best Day Trips From Antwerp, Belgium

• 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 🙂 

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Exploring the Alpine Countries

About this tour.

Discover storybook castles and opulent palaces amidst stunning Alpine vistas as you explore Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Visit Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Take a cruise along the legendary Danube. Stroll the quaint streets of Salzburg, the "City of Music." Spend two nights in the heart of the Black Forest. Visit Oberammergau, renowned for its 380-year tradition of producing a Passion Play every decade. Witness the beauty of Linderhof Palace and its perfect decorated gardens. From Vienna and the Black Forest to the Swiss Alps and Lucerne, explore the heart of Europe.

Your Tour Includes

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Classical Concert
• Danube Cruise

Your Tour at a Glance

10 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $85.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel exploring the alpine countries austria - germany - switzerland.

While just about any month is great to visit Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Exploring the Alpine Countries tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Fairly mild weather and fewer crowds make spring a great time to visit these countries.

Summer: Summer is a beautiful time of year to experience the region’s natural beauty and outdoor activities, even as popular sites and attractions draw crowds. It can get quite hot in the summer, so keep in mind there are very few hotels with air conditioning in the region. If the heat bothers you, you may prefer visiting in the spring or fall.

Fall: Fall is another great time to go on this tour. Although there are still a lot of crowds until mid-October, the weather is wonderful.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Come to know Vienna and its incredible Schönbrunn Palace.

Discover the capital of the Bavaria region, Munich.

Spend two nights in the beautiful city of Salzburg.

Cultural Experiences:

Cruise along the legendary Danube River.

Enjoy a performance by opera singers and ballet dancers set to the music of Strauss, Mozart, and more, in Vienna.

Visit a woodcarving studio in the quaint village of Oberammergau.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor a dinner of local Swiss specialties in Lucerne.

Dine on Black Forest Cake in the region it originated from.

• Choices on Tour
• Oberammergau
• Linderhof Palace
• Black Forest

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Intercontinental Hotel Wien

Hotel-Radisson Blu Hotel Lucerne

A captivating place in history awaits you today as you travel to the Eagle's Nest - Hitler's former private refuge, built as a teahouse for his 50th birthday. Upon reaching the town of Obersalzberg, you will board specially designed coaches for the adventurous and breathtaking ride along the steep rock walls and gorges which lead to the base of the Kehlstein. A large brass elevator will carry you up the final 365 feet into the Eagle's Nest. From here, you are sure to enjoy the spectacular views in every direction.

Enjoy the splendor of pure nature while gliding over a clear landscape in panoramic gondolas and spectacular cable cars. Ascend Pilatus via a unique excursion on the steepest railway of the world with a gradient of 48%. Upon arrival at the top, soak in the magnificent Alpine view from 7,000 feet above sea level. During leisure time at the summit, stroll the walkway for views from a different vantage point, or enjoy Swiss culinary delights on your own in one of the various restaurants (lunch is not included). Return back down the mountain by panoramic gondola for yet another bird’s eye view.

Come to know Vienna and its incredible Schönbrunn Palace.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Intercontinental Hotel Wien From $160 per night

Intercontinental Hotel Wien

Arcotel castellani salzburg, alte post hotel, hofgut sternen, radisson blu hotel, lucerne.

Nights 9-10

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Post Night: Radisson Blu Hotel, Lucerne From $235 per night

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Germany, Switzerland & Austria

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Discover three Central European nations, from Germany’s wild forests to Austria’s urbane capital.

They may share a border (and abundant elegance), but Germany, Switzerland, and Austria all dazzle in their own way. On this guided trip, you’ll encounter delightfully distinct style and substance at each stop: Gothic spires keeping watch over red-tiled roofs in Heidelberg, Germany; Art Nouveau buildings flanking sophisticated streets in Vienna, Austria; and more. From the Swiss Alps to the Bavarian Forest, this tour truly has something for everyone—and by taking up the optional extension to Budapest, you can add even more history, and a shot of Magyar magic, to the mix.

Special departures of this itinerary

Oktoberfest     Christmas Markets     New Year's Eve

Your tour package includes

• 12 nights in handpicked hotels
• 12 breakfasts
• 6 dinners with beer or wine
• 8 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• Heidelberg Castle
• The Black Forest
• Kapellbrücke
• Liechtenstein
• Nymphenburg Palace

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Frankfurt today.

Willkommen in Deutschland! After landing in Frankfurt, transfer to your hotel in the Heidelberg Region and settle in for the day. Then, enjoy a welcome dinner in good company as you get to know your Tour Director and fellow travelers. Raise your glass of beer or wine and get excited for the days to come.

Cradled by the River Neckar and the Odenwald mountain range, the university town of Heidelberg is famous for its Romantic aesthetics, Baroque architecture, and artistic heritage. Today, embark on a guided tour and fall for the charm of this UNESCO City of Literature.

• Wander into the heart of Heidelberg’s Baroque Old Town and take in the sights and sounds of the Marktplatz—the elegant Market Square, one of the oldest plazas in the city.
• Explore the campus of Heidelberg University. Founded in 1386, it’s the oldest university in Germany and one of the oldest in the world, with the reputation to match. Among its alumni: Dmitri Mendeleev, the creator of the modern periodic table of elements; Robert Schumann, the famous classical composer; and Wilhelm Wundt, one of the “fathers” of modern psychology.
• Ride a funicular up to the Renaissance-era Heidelberg Castle. Protecting the city below from its perch on the slopes of the Königstuhl, this rose-colored ruin ranks among the area’s most iconic features.

Want to see more of the region’s royal past? Add an afternoon outing to your schedule and strike out for the town of Schwetzingen, home to an aristocratic summer residence. Or, use your free time in Heidelberg to wander and ponder on the Philosopher’s Walk—a scenic path along the riverbank once frequented by local professors and thinkers.

Castle & Gardens of Schwetzingen

From $69 per person

Leave Heidelberg and make your way to the Swiss Alps through the fabled Black Forest, a wooded mountain range that provided the backdrop for many of the Brothers Grimm’s folktales. En route, stop at the thundering Rhine Falls—the most powerful cascade in all of Europe. After arriving at your hotel, get situated before reuniting with your group for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

Set out into lakeside Lucerne (one of Switzerland’s most populated cities) for a guided sightseeing tour and enjoy a taste of Alpine life—complete with clear views of Pilatus, Rigi, and the rugged ridges of other neighboring mountains.

• View the Lion Monument, a tribute to the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives in Paris during the French Revolution.
• Pass the hand-painted facades that line the cobbled streets of the Old Town—the traditional core of the city that dates to medieval times.
• Cross the famous wooden Kapellbrücke (say it “ka-PELL-broo-kuh”), a 14th-century covered bridge that spans the Reuss River, and view the adjacent Water Tower. Octagonal in shape and made of stone—with a complicated past as a sentinel’s post, state treasury, and prison—it predates the Kapellbrücke by roughly 100 years.
• See the Jesuit Church, the first large Baroque building of its kind to be built north of the Alps in Switzerland.

If you’d like, add an afternoon journey to the top of Mount Pilatus and explore Lucerne’s surroundings by ferry, cogwheel railway, and cable car. Alternatively, hang back in town and treat yourself to some rösti: Pronounced “REU-shtee,” this dish centers on grated, fried potatoes—kind of like a Swiss hash brown. Top it with eggs or sausage to elevate it from a satisfying snack to a hearty meal.

Mount Pilatus

From $135 per person

Cross into Liechtenstein, a tiny Alpine principality that dates to the Holy Roman Empire. (And we mean tiny: With a population of just under 40,000 people, it’s the sixth-smallest nation in the world.) Visit the capital of Vaduz and pass the royal family’s namesake castle. Perched atop a hill, it has watched over the region since the 12th century and serves as the royal residence to this day.

After getting your passport stamped, continue to Innsbruck—capital of the Austrian state of Tyrol and site of two Winter Olympics—where you’ll hop off your bus for a walking tour with a local guide.

• Venture into the Old Town for a glimpse of two local legends: the Goldenes Dachl (the Golden Roof, covered in over 2,600 gilded copper tiles) and the Stadtturm (the City Tower, a 150-foot Gothic sentry post).
• Pass the Hofburg and walk its cobblestoned courtyard. Prized for its architectural design, this former Habsburg palace is one of the most important cultural sites in all of Austria.
• Enter the Baroque Cathedral of St. James, an 18th-century structure that houses Maria Hilf ( Mary of Succor ), one of the most venerated works of Marian art in the Christian world.

From there, travel to the Austrian Alps, where you’ll sit down for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

Pass through the Bavarian Alps, a range of limestone mountains and valleys furrowed by retreating glaciers during the last ice age. Amid this expanse of rocky peaks and alpine forests, you’ll take a slight detour.

• Pause for photos of Neuschwanstein Castle’s mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine architecture, and marvel at the fairytale retreat of Ludwig II—the 19th-century king deemed “mad” for his unrestrained patronage of the arts.
• Revel in scenic views of the Alps as you relax and explore during your free time, or grab lunch in Schwangau, the town below Neuschwanstein.
• Embark on a guided tour of a nearby Bavarian castle—yet another royal residence with close ties to Mad King Ludwig.

Then, continue to Munich and sit down for dinner, served with beer or wine.

Please note: Depending on your departure date and booking availability, you’ll enter either Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau Castle, or Linderhof Palace.

Today, embark on a guided tour of Munich. Founded in the 12th century and boasting traditional and cosmopolitan appeal, the capital of Bavaria is the third-largest city in all of Germany. It’s also home to the original Oktoberfest—a massive celebration that, to this day, remains the biggest beer festival in the world.

• Travel past the 18th-century Englischer Garten—a gargantuan urban park that counts a Japanese teahouse and an open-air, Greek-style temple among its many monuments—and the fashionable Schwabing district, formerly home to Munich’s bohemian residents.
• Enter Nymphenburg Palace, the Baroque home to past Bavarian royalty, and walk through its elaborately carved halls.
• Walk from Odeonsplatz—Munich’s large central square, named after an adjacent former concert hall—through the well-manicured grounds of the Hofgarten to view the Residenz, once home to the Wittelsbach dukes of Bavaria.
• Explore Marienplatz, Munich’s medieval heart, and see the famed Glockenspiel clock. Maybe you’ll catch it as it chimes!

If you choose, join your group on an outing to Dachau—the former site of a notorious Nazi concentration camp—and gain a sobering perspective on one of humanity’s darkest eras. If you’d prefer to stay behind, use the rest of your day at your leisure—perhaps sipping a pint of local ale at a biergarten.

From $55 per person

Depart Munich and head to Salzburg, Austria, a city famed for its churches and musical history. Upon arrival, a guide will lead you on a walking tour of its Old Town. Known locally as the Alstadt, Salzburg’s historic core has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, honoring its legacy as the confluence of Italian and German culture.

• Pass by the University of Salzburg—an institution of higher learning first established in 1622—and St. Peter’s Abbey. Operating in some form or another since 696, it’s the oldest continuously running monastery in German-speaking Europe.
• See a trio of famous squares: the Kapitelplatz, former site of the Cathedral Abbey; Residenzplatz, once home of the Price-Archbishops of Salzburg; and Alter Markt, where the city’s weekly market used to set up shop.
• Walk by the dashing yellow facade of the Mozarts Geburtshaus, the birthplace and childhood home of the virtuosic composer himself.
• Enter the richly ornamented Salzburg Cathedral. Although the current Baroque structure was built in the 17th century, the building’s roots go all the way back to 774, when Saint Rupert founded the church atop the remains of an old Roman town.

This evening, sit down with your group for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

A pair of outings await you today. For a helping of World War II history, set against the backdrop of a quaint mountain village, strike out for Berchtesgaden. For a classy evening of fine dining and classical music, head to St. Peter Stiftskeller. Add one, add both, or take the day for yourself and roam about more of the Altstadt at your leisure.

Please note: The Berchtesgaden excursions are seasonal. The Eagle’s Nest & Salt Mines trip runs mid-May–September, and the Berchtesgaden: Salt Mines & Village Visit outing runs January–April and November–December.

Mozart Concert & Dinner

From $149 per person

Eagle's Nest & Salt Mines

Berchtesgaden: Salt Mines & Village Visit

From $85 per person

Travel east to the Austrian capital of Vienna, stopping along the way in the little town of Melk for a guided tour of its Benedictine abbey. Built up over the centuries following its foundation in 1089, this mammoth monastery typifies the Baroque style and offers immaculate views of the Wachau Valley—itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its pavilion, library, and chapel, then continue your journey through the Danube River Basin. Arrive in Vienna, unpack, and prepare for the next day’s sightseeing.

Coffeehouse culture. The Age of Empires. Symphonies and orchestras. Vienna has influenced world affairs for centuries. Today, you’ll enjoy the best of “The City of Dreams” on a guided sightseeing tour.

• Step inside Belvedere Palace, home to the world’s largest collection of paintings by artist Gustav Klimt, and admire acre upon acre of impressive gardens.
• Travel down the tree-canopied paths of the Ringstrasse—the gorgeous Ring Road that encircles Vienna’s Old Town—passing the Austrian Parliament Building, Vienna State Opera, and Kunsthistorisches Museum as you go.
• See the grand Hofburg palace. Once the seat of the Habsburg dynasty, it now serves as the official residence and office of the president of Austria.

To bookend your day with some sweet relaxation (and a glass or two of wine), take up tonight’s outing to a heuriger—a traditional Austrian tavern. Or, spend your evening strolling Vienna’s beautiful boulevards at your own pace.

Traditional Viennese Heurigen Evening

From $119 per person

Squeeze another country into your scrapbook on today’s optional cruise to Bratislava, Slovakia. Or, indulge in a typical Viennese pastime: whiling the hours away, newspaper in hand, at one of the city’s many coffeehouses.

This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner, served with beer or wine, as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

Danube River Cruise & Bratislava

From $129 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Interested in exploring another UNESCO World Heritage Site—home to the second-largest synagogue and third-largest parliament building on Earth? Continue to Budapest, Hungary, on this trip’s extension.

Travel to Budapest today, then discover the major landmarks of both sides of the city—Buda and Pest, each originally independent towns—with a local guide.

• Trace this nation’s stormy past at Heroes’ Square, adorned with statues of great leaders and other symbolic figures.
• Tour the lavish interior of the Hungarian State Opera House. If you’re wondering how to best define “opulence,” you’ll find it in the auditorium: Rich golds and crimsons carry the eye to statues symbolizing operatic voices and the virtues, all watched over by delicately painted murals.
• Cross the Danube and ascend Castle Hill. Topped by the UNESCO-listed Buda Castle, this outcrop was the historic home of the Hungarian Kings for more than 800 years, until the title was dissolved after World War I.
• Bask in breathtaking views of the city from the Neo-Romanesque Fisherman’s Bastion, so named for the band of fisherfolk who guarded this part of an old castle’s walls.
• Visit the medieval Matthias Church, once the site of Hungarian and Habsburg coronations.

Enjoy a free evening in Budapest and maybe visit one of the city’s famous ruin bars—abandoned buildings that now host quirkily decorated bars.

If you want to spend a few hours delving into Budapest’s history under the Communist regime, tack today’s excursion onto your itinerary. Alternatively, use your free day to soak away your stresses in one of the city’s popular thermal baths.

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink and celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

Budapest: A Walk Behind the Iron Curtain

From $99 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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Overall rating 4.7 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

The tour was fast paced and very informative! Thoroughly enjoyed the alps and Budapest. Could have used more time in Munich and shaven a day off Vienna. The extra offering of the sound of music your was delightful, as was the evening dinner cruise on the Danube. Going to Slovakia seemed like it woul...

Our first Go Ahead Tour was such an educational and thoroughly fun experience. The Alps were amazing and the beautiful villages hidden in them went on for days. Our trip up Mt. Pilatus, Lucern, could not have been more thrilling and beautiful. The final dinner cruise up and down the Danube was dream...

Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience wi...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This comfortable hotel is located in the Mannheim city center. Guests enjoy a pool, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Schloss Mannheim, ...

This stylish hotel is located in the Austrian Alps town of Tirol, just outside of Innsbruck. Guests enjoy the sauna, fitness center, and impressive ba...

This urban hotel is located in Engelberg. Guests enjoy a restaurant, cafe, and lounge. Nearby, you’ll find Engelberg Abbey, Eugenisee Lake, and views ...

This centrally-located hotel is located in the heart of Munich. Guests enjoy the fitness center, Finnish style sauna, and an on-site restaurant. Nearb...

This contemporary hotel is located in Salzburg city center. Guests enjoy the large garden, fitness center, and restaurant. Nearby, you'll find the Sal...

This convenient hotel is located in the city center of Vienna, Austria. Guests enjoy the fitness area, on-site bar and restaurant, and spa. Nearby you...

This comfortable hotel is in Budapest's city center. Guests enjoy the on-site bistro, spacious rooms, and on-site coffee house. Nearby you'll find the...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• This tour visits Germany, Switzerland and Austria (plus Hungary on the tour extension). In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code WWR.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Frankfurt and depart from Vienna (or Budapest on the tour extension).
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Frankfurt, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• One 1-night stay
• 3 full days of included activities in a row (more if you add excursions)
• All transportation by motor coach
• About 4 hours of bus time daily

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day - this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• During the visit to Neuschwanstein, travelers can expect to walk 25 minutes uphill on a steep incline to view the castle and further walking to get to the castles entrance, if included.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour.

Climate Considerations

• In the summer months, June-September, travelers can expect high temperatures from 70Fs -80Fs and lows from 50Fs-60Fs with occasional extreme heatwaves.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels and airports.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three to four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• All destinations visited on this tour operate on the European standard 220-240 volts and use Types C or F plugs with two small, round pins. You may also use a Type J plug with three small pins in Switzerland.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes six dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• German food is hearty and substantial. Among the specialties are dumpling stews, sauerkraut, sausages, smoked cheeses, and dark breads. Bavaria produces some of the world’s purest beers, and white German wines are exceptionally good.
• Swiss food is varied and sophisticated, and some popular dishes include sausages, breaded veal fillets, freshwater fish, and cheese dishes such as fondue and raclette. Be sure to try Swiss chocolate, which is among the world’s finest.
• Austria is known for its savory Wiener schnitzel and excellent wild trout, carp, and crayfish. Save room for dessert—especially the strudels of fruit and nuts and elegant chocolate cakes, such as the world-famous Sachertorte.
• On the tour extension, Hungary claims goulash as its national dish, but also is known for excellent salamis, cheeses, nut-flavored pancakes, freshwater fish, and preserved fruits.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10-$12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro in Germany and Austria and the Swiss franc in Switzerland (and the Hungarian forint in Hungary on the tour extension).
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Hungary on the tour extension, are one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and six hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.

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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.

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 !

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.

(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.) 

*** 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! 

*** 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.

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 !

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!

Stunning Wasserauen Ebenalp Switzerland: how to see it! (2024) (with photos!)

The best places to celebrate easter in europe in 2024, germany in winter ultimate guide, everything you need to know (2024), the ultimate (travel) halloween bucket list, top destinations to get in the “spirit” (2024), 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

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Germany and Switzerland Tours & Trips

Get ready for an incredible adventure through Germany and Switzerland . From Munich, home to Oktoberfest and magnificent architecture, you'll reach Berlin, the greenest city in Germany and offers plenty of museums for you to explore. Switzerland awaits too with magnificent stops such as Geneva, Zurich or Bern. Round up your experience with a visit to Austria where you will find sweeping views over the Alps.

250+ Germany and Switzerland tour packages with 1,172 reviews

• River Cruise

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

Excellent service and staff. Wonderful meals, very clean accommodations. We enjoyed the included tours and activities. Having English speaking staff was a big advantage. We would recommend Avalon as a cruise company.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Magnificent Four

It is reasonably priced. The meals included and the hotels were not the greatest but i signed up for the sights to see and it wasn’t disappointing overall. Maybe there was a little too much sights that we didn’t have enough time to enjoy each stop but overall was worth it. The reason i skipped review of tour guide in the options because we had 4 tour guides (shout outs to 2 Juans, Julian, and Veronica) and they all did good. There were 3 local guides - the guide in Berlin and Paris did a fantastic job, while the one in Prague could do better (maybe more practice and she’ll get there eventually). One thing that could be improved on is communication- there are couple of times that we didn’t receive information changes as to meeting time, there was no orientation, and there was no information posted on the hotel front desk. It may not be the tour director’s fault because at times they might be receiving information late as well. There is a change of tour director and group at every destination which is good and bad depending on what type of group you started with. If you started with a fun group and a guide, unfortunately the guide changes in the next destination and the fun group may be split due to large number or because of different destinations. Also, i think there are certain stops that was included in the itinerary but we were not able to go due to weather or if we did, the day wasn’t suited. There should be other options to replace these. Like we stopped at some place in Berlin but it was a Sunday and the majority of shops and restaurants were closed. The same happened in Grindelwald. The weather wasn’t really cooperating and there was a place where we were supposed to go but was closed due to weather condition. So we just went, ate a decent lunch (included in the tour) after freezing outside, then rode the train back down and onto the bus. The consolation price is the astonishing mountain view along the way. After almost 10 hours of going to the mountain most of it spent on the bus, no one was even interested to see Lucerne anymore! The transfer from Switzerland to Paris was a very long ride! From 7:30am to 9pm. There was a couple of hours stop at Bern on the way and it was a pretty little city. I think we could have just skipped Zurich and went to Bern directly. To sum up- would i take this tour again? Yes , I would. I’d like to try it at a different season (maybe Spring). And I would also recommend it to a friend who wants to see a lot of places in Europe at a reasonable price.

From Prague to Zurich

Following are the things that should be included in your future offerings. - Tours should include some thrilling activities such as speed boat riding, 3D/VR experience, skydiving or other similar activities as an add-on options wherever available in the countries included in the package. This is because mere sightseeing and visit of cultural, religious and traditional places will add little to fun and thrill. - Hotels is the stay should be advised to ensure provision of basis necessities such as sleepers for washrooms, tooth paste. Hotels should also provide at least one or two Halal dishes to the people from Muslim countries.

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

Low water and motor coach use for part of the trip were the only issues. Avalon did a great job of working around the issues and has offered generous compensation for the inconvenience. I’ll use Avalon again.

Classic Rhine cruise (Amsterdam-Basel) MS Crucevita

Great company to cruise with. Ship carries 110 passengers. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner each day. Plenty of stops to sightsee. The castles along the Rhine make trip a very enjoyable cruise. All staff were great.

Switzerland All-in-one trip

Vittalli from All in one Swiss tours was an excellent guide and everything ran smoothly. Tourradar were great with communication and liaising with us and All in one Swiss tours

Classic Rhine cruise (Basel-Amsterdam) MS Crucevita

The cruise was beautiful and very scenic especially the loreley strip. The restaurant staff were extremely friendly and warm. Special mention of Ida, Kenan and Sugana . The rest of the crew were very accommodating too. The tour leader Jessica and Jordi was super and helpful although we were the only few English speakers she made us feel included. On the whole it was a very beautiful experience although the rooms are a bit old design and the boat is not a very new but the staff were phenomenal .

Swiss Fairytale

We had the pleasure of having Vitalii as our tour guide. His extensive knowledge about Switzerland’s historical landmarks was remarkable and shared many captivating stories and facts that breathed life into each site we visited. Vitalii was accommodating and attentive to our preferences, adjusting the tour's pace and stops to ensure everyone felt comfortable. His friendly demeanor and willingness to answer questions made the tour engaging and enjoyable for us. Vitalii's expertise and fun personality transformed our tour into an unforgettable and enriching experience. We were very appreciative of the photos he took of us. We couldn't have asked for a better guide. Highly recommended!

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

Country Roads of Bavaria, Switzerland & Austria (Small Groups, 12 Days)

Rhine Highlights with Switzerland (Start Amsterdam, End Zurich)

April was amazing all the knowledge of the places we visited. A credit to the ship nothing was too much trouble lots of fun. Thank you

Rhine Highlights with Switzerland - Koblenz > Rhine Gorge

Classical Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam - Basel) (10 destinations)

All the staff were excellent. I especially would like to mention Stepan, Ana, Giovanni, Yani, Yasa, Raka, Vah, Bonbon, Titot, Dani, Christian. But everyone treated us like royalty. Not one time did someone say, "oh that is not my job." The accomodations were top class, the food excellent, loved the pool. Definately 5 stars.

Germany and Switzerland in a week - Covering Munich, Lucerne and Zurich

Zurich - Lucerne & The Majestic Rhine

well-organized, professional crew, neat ship

What people love about Germany And Switzerland Tours

It was a great cruise. The food was amazing, the crew was really helpful, and the tours and tour guides were great. The only thing to imporve on if the WiFi which only worked half the time.

brilliant. The tour spent the perfect amount of time in each location, the tour guides - shout-out to both Gabby and Linus! - were so brilliantly customer focused, informative, patient, professional. They removed any hiccups and made the trip easy to just enjoy.

The hotels that we stayed in are nice. We had two guides throughout the 6 day tour.

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Best of the Germanic Lands: Wonderful Austria, Germany, and Switzerland Tour

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• Trip Overview

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

Nourish your senses as you walk along classic wine trails and listen to the music of some of the world’s most celebrated composers. Travel through the splendors of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland on a custom tailored tour and immerse yourself in luxury and culture, chocolate and marzipan, fairytale castles and snow-capped mountains. Baroque palaces tower above cobblestone streets as half-timbered buildings hide chic, contemporary restaurants.

Customizable Itinerary

Vienna – contemporary and imperial vienna.

The corners of Vienna brim with impressive contemporary museums, chic restaurants, and imperial splendor from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Your flight lands at the Vienna airport, and your private transfer awaits your arrival. You will be escorted into the heart of the city to find historical streets that wind around the elaborate architecture of the State Opera House. The city has a deep connection with music, and operatic and ballet performances are staged hundreds of times each year. The current opera house was erected in the 19th-century in the style of Early French Renaissance.

What's Included:

Vienna – Museums and Monuments

In the morning, the Bohemian spirit fills the café known as Mozart’s favorite refuge and one of the last places the maestro performed in public. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingers along the cushioned booths as patrons engage in conversation. After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby to whisk you through Vienna’s captivating monuments and rich history. Pass the stunning black façade of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and marvel at the Late Romanesque style of the Heathen Towers gate remains from the 13th-century edifice. The majority of the structure was renovated in the 18th-century, but the nearly 450-foot tall tower was erected in the 1400s.

Vienna – Vienna’s Quarters and Restaurants

In the morning, the shops on the Mariahilf, one of Vienna’s busiest walking streets, opens to the public. Locals venture to the produce market to buy fresh fruits and vegetables as the aroma of fresh bread emanates from the bakery stands. Cheesemongers offer free samples to passersby as your private guide leads you on another tour of the city to reveal more of the opulent sites and monuments. On sunny days, locals gather on the Danube canal to sunbathe on the sandbank beaches with deck chairs and blankets to turn the canal shores into a resort atmosphere.

Salzburg – Transfer to Salzburg and Visit the Hallein Salt Mine en route

Locals around the old city venture to a cafe to enjoy a double mocha with a splash of herbaceous liqueur, known as the Mozart. The tarts and croissants add a buttery, sweet aroma to the rich scent of roasted coffee beans. Your private transfer meets you in your hotel lobby and escorts you to the stunning city of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, with a stop at the Hallein salt mine along the way. The Baroque architecture in the town of Hallein adds a layer of luster beneath the towering figures of the mountaintops. Travel to the entrance of the mine and find a large doorway that leads into the mountain. The alpine air blends with the scent of stone.

Salzburg – Salzburg’s Charming Streets

The sunlight washes over the quiet district of New Town, located north of the Salzach River. The Mirabell Gardens and Mozart’s former home shine against what was once on the fringe of the historical city. Horses clop along the cobblestone streets of Old Town and pass the Baroque buildings of the 16th and 17th-centuries. Mozart left an impression on Salzburg that remains today as it emanates from the music that pours out of charming shops and fills the plaza of Market Square.  Follow your guide on an in-depth tour of Salzburg’s history and splendor that begins at Residenzplatz, the oldest square on the Salzach River’s left bank.

Munich – Visit Neuschwanstein Castle

The old merchant homes from the 15th-century that line the pedestrian avenue of the Getreidegasse continue to draw visitors from around the world. Wrought-iron shop signs dangle over doorways and cafes are filled with people in search of a freshly brewed cup of coffee. After breakfast, leave the charming city of Salzburg behind and make your way over the border into the Bavarian region of Germany. Before you reach Munich, stop in the town of Fussen, home to the Neuschwanstein Castle. King Ludwig II built the structure between 1869 and 1886 but spent only 170 days living on the grounds before his untimely death. The stories of Ludwig’s youth, along with the enticing tales of celebrated operas, inspired the castle’s fairytale design.

Munich – Tour the Bavarian Capital

Men walk through both the contemporary, and the historical, streets of Munich in lederhosen throughout the year and women enjoy the flowing fabric of dirndls. Cafes open to the cobbled streets of Old Town and the 950-foot tall television tower near Olympic Park watches over the entirety of Germany’s third-largest city. Your guide will lead you on an elaborate full day tour of Munich’s captivating old streets and its contemporary neighborhoods.

Baden-Baden – The Spa Town of Baden-Baden

The bustling outdoor market of Viktualienmarkt opens daily with 140 colorful booths filled with the unique flavors of Bavaria. The scent of fennel and radishes joins the aroma of honey and cured sausages as they dangle from the small rafters. Stroll through the avenues to find a rainbow of hues and sweet, freshly baked strudels. After breakfast, venture to the town of Baden-Baden, located in the famous German Black Forest. A neoclassical pump room was erected in the 19th-century to overlook the manicured grounds of Kurpark.

Baden-Baden – The Wine Region of Alsace

The Baroque buildings and fountains of Old Town come to light in the morning, framed by antique shops and lavish galleries. After breakfast, your guide will lead you across the western border in the Alsace region of France for a day among the medieval towns, award-winning restaurants, and mouthwatering wines. Travel the well known Route des Vin d’Alsace which begins in the town of Thann. The French, German, and Swiss use the Alsace as an easy weekend getaway to follow along meandering trails that hug the Vosges Mountains foothills and the banks of the Rhine River. The village of Obernai stands at the foot of Mont Sainte-Odile surrounded by the Ehn River.

Zurich – Visit the City of Basel

Today you will leave the lovely town of Baden-Baden and cross the border into Switzerland to discover the incredible cultural attractions and luxurious ambiance of Basel, with more than 15 square miles of museums. Six bridges arch over the Rhine River to connect the cobbled streets of Old Town with the manicured streets of the more contemporary neighborhoods. Basel joined the Swiss Confederation in the 16th-century, and its university became a center for distinguished scholars and teachers.

The Town Hall in Marktplatz marks the city center as a daily market takes place in the mornings and brims with pyramids of fruit and budding flowers. The Town Hall’s bright red walls dominate the square with a 16th-century Gothic style with its adorning clock constructed between 1511 and 1512. The Basel Historical Museum contains a collection of art and weaponry that spans more than two millennia beneath its cavernous vaulted ceilings. Your guide will lead you to a stunning 15th-century mural depiction of the “Dance of Death,” a medieval allegory on the universality of death, which in philosophers’ and artists’ minds, united the world.

Zurich – Explore the Sites of Zurich

Zurich springs to life in the morning as locals venture to work along the cobbled streets and electric trollies. The city stands at the heart of Europe, in the center of Switzerland, and emits a cosmopolitan flair while maintaining a deep connection to its alpine heritage. Old Town rises over the left bank of the Limmat River where the Romans first build their settlement, and the old streets of the city follow the grid of the fortified town. The aroma of coffee drifts out of the small cafes and blends with the scent of leather from the bound books inside the antique bookstores.

Your guide will lead you to the Kunsthaus Museum as run by the Zurich Society of Arts, a society of artists founded in the late 18th-century. The museum houses the largest collection of Monet’s work outside of Paris and specializes in exhibitions of quality over quantity. At the center of the Monet exhibit hang two of the artist’s larger water lily canvases, along with the 20th-century haystack series, which inspired Kandinsky’s style of non-figurative forms. The more contemporary neighborhood across the river contains the Bahnhofstrasse, a mile-long street with bank headquarters, exclusive fashion boutiques, and street cafes where people linger and watch the chic styles of passersby.

Lausanne – The Capital City of Bern

The winding roads of the Alps take you from the charm of Zurich, with its mixture of cosmopolitan culture and Swiss heritage, to the shores of Lake Geneva in the city of Lausanne. Before you reach the city, stop in Switzerland’s capital of Bern, home to a picture-perfect Old Town, Albert Einstein’s home, and a unique blend of historical streets set atop a sandstone plateau that overlooks the calm waters of the Aare River. Swiss flags hang along the half-timbered buildings of the old city and brush against the doorframes of hidden, chic bars. Cafes set tables along the cobblestone streets and provide patrons with decadent hot chocolate, delicious coffee, and indulgently sweet pastries.

Lausanne – Revel in a Full Day Tour of In and Around Lausanne

Wake up in the enchanting city of Lausanne, and it’s view of the glistening waters of Lake Geneva as framed by the rolling mountain peaks on the distant horizon. The blue copper spires of the Cathedral imitate the spiked peaks that surround the city. A timber-canopied staircase with a tiled roof rises alongside antique homes to the terrace and leads to the cathedral’s front door. Medieval streets, Gothic architecture, and diverse artistry mingle with the two renowned universities that bring a vibrant ambiance of the city.

Lausanne – Depart for Home

Locals venture to a nearby cafe in the morning, a charming coffeehouse nestled among the bustling streets of the Grand Pont. You can spend some extra time in the luxury of your hotel. When the time comes, your private transfer will meet you in the hotel lobby and escort you to the airport in Geneva for your international flights home.

Trip Highlights

• Indulge in the unique flavors of the landscape with visits to the cherished wine regions Alsace, on the French border, and Lavaux, near the Swiss Alps
• Venture deep into the heart of the Austrian mountains while touring the world’s oldest salt mine
• Witness the graceful allure of the imperial Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna
• Discover the fairytale edifice and inspiring frescoes of the Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany
• Enjoy the electric atmosphere of a traditional German beer hall in Munich, home to liter steins and mesmerizing music
• Sink into the relaxing, healing waters of Baden-Baden with a tranquil spa treatment in the historic baths
• Witness the elaborate artwork of Austrian masters in the Leopold Museum and along Museums Quartier
• View one of the largest collection of French Impressionist artwork in the world to find a stunning array of Monet’s large water lily pieces
• Absorb the culture and heritage of the Swiss Alps in Bern, host to a collection of museums providing insight into the region’s past that informs its present
• Relish the pleasures of private tour guides who specialize in catering each tour to your interests
• Immerse yourself in the comforts of luxurious accommodation located in the heart of cities, villages, and towns across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland

Detailed Description

Private tours allow you the flexibility to explore the bustling streets of a city, linger in the charming alleys of a village, and enjoy the vibrant artwork of a museum you stumbled upon along the way. Your 15-day tour of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland allows you to follow your guide on individualized tours created with your personal tastes in mind. From stallion training at the Spanish Riding School to posing with epic operatic murals in the Neuschwanstein Castle, submerging in mineral waters of Baden-Baden to the Gothic cathedral of Lausanne, you will have the splendor of history and the beauty of landscape at your fingertips.

Your tour begins with your arrival in Vienna, Austria, home to the Hapsburg Palace and a renowned opera house. Your private transfer meets you at the airport and escorts you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Spend the next day on a tour of Vienna’s cultural heritage, from museums to churches as you enjoy the delicious cuisine and inviting nightlife. Continue the next morning with a half-day tour of Vienna to discover the opulence of the Hapsburg Palace grounds, along with a performance of the Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School. Make your way to Salzburg by way of the Hallein Salt Mine the following day and dive deep into the caverns to see the extent of the mine and its history.

Continue as your guide will lead you on a full day grand tour of Salzburg, from Mozart’s birthplace to the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Taste a delicious marzipan and enjoy a view of the Salzach River. Travel next to the Bavarian region of Germany to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle. The fairytale ambiance emanates from the elaborate architectural design and décor. Move next to a full day tour of the famous Glockenspiel and outdoor markets of Munich. Venture through the mixture of contemporary and antique streets to enjoy the delightful music and laughter of one of the city’s famous beer halls.

Journey next to the town of Baden-Baden in the Black Forest and stroll through the streets on an introductory tour before you relax in the hot and cold baths of one of the town’s celebrated, historical spas. Cross the border into France for a unique tour of the Alsace wine region and relish the sights of medieval towns and beautiful vineyards. You will then make your way into Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich. The ambiance combines its deep heritage with a contemporary style and architecture outside of the old town. En route to Zurich you visit the museum friendly city of Basel, celebrated for its art, bridges, and culture.

Traverse the streets of Zurich to experience the pleasures of the city at your preferred pace to take in the museums, the half-timbered buildings, and the elegant shopping streets. Stop in the city of Bern en route to Lausanne; the Swiss capital has two distinct districts separated by the Aare River. Once in Lausanne, relax in your luxurious hotel that overlooks Lake Geneva. You will then have time to enjoy the charms of Lausanne before you wander along the treasures of the Lavaux wine region, filled with delicious wineries and stunning vineyards. Conclude as your private transfer meets you at your hotel in Lausanne to escort you to Geneva Airport for your flight home

Starting Price

$5,455  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

The starting price is based on travel during the low season for a minimum of two travelers staying in shared 3-star accommodations. Please inquire for a custom trip quote based on your travel preferences and travel dates.

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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.

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.

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.

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Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

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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13 Day Germany and Austria Tour from Frankfurt to Vienna

13 days, 2 countries and 11 cities

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12 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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Modern cities, medieval towns and all the sights in between make this Best of Germany and Austria experience one you’ll remember. Beyond the beauty of the Rhine and Wachau, you’ll explore Vienna’s musical treasures, Alpine landscapes and the castle of a shy king.

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13 days itinerary trip from Frankfurt to Vienna visiting 2 countries and 11 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Berlin, Salzburg and Vienna with a Local Specialist

Discover Frankfurt, Cologne, Rothenburg, Munich and Innsbruck

Visit the Berlin TV Tower, Neuschwanstein Castle.

View Cologne Cathedral, the Golden Roof in Innsbruck, Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg, Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna

See the Lorelei Rock, the Marienberg Fortress and the Prince-Bishops' residence in Würzburg and Melk Abbey

Scenic Cruise along the Rhine River

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High-speed train from Cologne to Berlin

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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Essential Europe by Rail: Austria, Germany and Switzerland

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Itinerary Summary

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International Arrival

You will be transferred from Vienna airport to your hotel in a private vehicle

Included activities

Personalized Walking Tour of Vienna

Explore Vienna on foot in the company of an expert local guide. Explore the city’s historic old town and its imperial streets. Understand the influence of Babenbergs and the Habsburg Dynasty on the city's landmark attractions. Discover the atmospheric square of Karlsplatz, the sprawling Hofburg palace complex and the soaring Gothic-style St Stephen's Cathedral. Walk along the beautifully manicured Ringstrasse, past the Austrian Parliament Building and the Vienna City Hall. You can also see the Heldenplatz square, known for being the site of Hitler's Anschluss speech. Take a break from the heavy past in urban green spaces such as Castle Park, and elegant shopping avenues including Kärntner Strasse, Kohlmarkt, and Goldenes Quartier. Admire the neoclassical architecture of the Vienna State Opera, and the colorful facade of the quirky Hundertwasserhaus apartment. (Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Group Tour of the Romantic Danube Valley

Enjoy a day out in the romantic Danube Valley and the Wachau region of Lower Austria. Renowned for architectural landmarks and epicurean delights, trade along the Danube gives this region a lively history. Witness the picturesque landscape, draped in terraced vineyards and wooded hill slopes dotted with quaint villages and medieval castles. Take a walk around the charming town of Krems an der Donau, known for its production of fine wines. Later, visit the iconic Melk Abbey, perched on a clifftop that overlooks the pretty town of Melk. Marvel at the Baroque architecture highlighted by white-and-mustard exteriors. See the spiral Imperial staircases painted ceilings, museums and galleries. After dropping by the monastery and the exquisitely decorated Abbey Church, take a break in the verdant gardens. Finally, take in panoramic views of Danube's riverside from the terrace. (Full Day; Shared Activity; No Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

You will be transferred from your hotel to Vienna train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Vienna to Salzburg (Duration: 2.5 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Salzburg train station to your hotel in a private vehicle

Personalized Walking Tour of Salzburg

Discover the culture and history of the UNESCO-listed city of Salzburg on foot. Walk across the old city with your knowledgeable guide, pausing to take in the sights. Admire the beautiful buildings and pick up tidbits about unique architectural features. Know more about famous historical figures hailing from Salzburg such as composer Mozart and the von Trapp family, immortalized in the movie ‘Sound of Music.’ Stop by picturesque locales such as Mirabell Palace and Garden that were featured in the movie. Mingle with locals as you head down the bustling shopping street of Getreidegasse. Pass by Festival Hall, a popular venue for annual events, and soak in the serenity of Saint Peter’s Abbey Church and its graveyard. Wind down your tour after about two hours of leisurely walking. (Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Group Tour: Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg

Find yourself transported back in time to the late 18th century during this unique dinner experience! As night falls, make your way to an opulent banquet hall bathed in a romantic candlelit glow. Dine on an array of traditional dishes dating back to the baroque age, infused with an innovative twist. As you relish your feast, enjoy the live rendition of Mozart´s compositions, performed by talented musicians and vocalists. Soak in the period ambience created by the 18th century recipes and costumes worn by the performers. Return to your hotel with memories of a lifetime. (Duration: 2-3 hrs; Shared Activity; Includes Dinner; Fitness Level: Easy. No Guide & No Transfers.)

You will be transferred from your hotel to Salzburg train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Salzburg to Munich (Duration: 2 hrs)

Transfer from Munich train station to your hotel

Walking Tour of Munich’s Historic Old Town

Start out on this interesting walking tour of the key landmarks in the historic old part of the city. Set off from the meeting point at the Hauptbahnhof or the central train station with your knowledgeable local expert. Pass by exquisitely detailed churches, historical monuments, and the Bavarian capital’s famous beer halls. Listen to your expert narrate riveting facts and amusing anecdotes about the various attractions you encounter along the way. Apart from the delightful sights, get historical insight into the city’s not-so-illustrious past as a Nazi stronghold during the first half of the 20th century. (Half Day; Fixed Time: Yes; Time of Day: 1015 (All Year), 1015/1430 (Apr 1 – Oct 15); Duration: 2 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy. Transfer not included: meet at Radius Tours Office, please arrive at least 15min early)

Explore Munich on Your Own

Unravel the secrets of this Bavarian city where tradition and modernity rub shoulders, as you set off to explore at your own pace. Peek into the past at the Dachau Concentration Camp and Memorial Site located just a short drive from the city. Soak in the history of the site before you make your way back to the city and head up the tower at Peterskirche to savor splendid views of the city. At lunchtime, get a taste of authentic German delicacies at one of the charming eateries and cafes that can be found all across the city. Afterward, stop by the large park of Englischer Garten to catch a glimpse of surfers riding the waves formed by the surging Eisbach river! Get a taste of local life at the sprawling Viktualienmarkt with its colorful displays of fresh produce, flowers, and snacks. Before you head back to your hotel, drop by a beerhouse such as the Hofbrauhaus where you can enjoy a cool pint served by traditionally dressed staff. (Full Day; Self-Guided Activity; No guide, transfers, entry tickets, meals included; Fitness Level: Easy)

Transfer from your hotel to Munich train station

Board your train from Munich to Zurich (Duration: 5 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Zurich train station to your hotel in a private vehicle

Group Excursion to Rhine Falls

Discover Europe’s widest waterfall, the stunning Rhine Falls in northern Switzerland, on this tour from Zurich. Journey through picturesque landscapes along the Swiss-German border, passing vineyards and farming villages, while your guide offers information on the region’s history and culture. Arrive at the medieval Schloss Laufen castle, perched on a forested clifftop overlooking the 150-meter-wide waterfall. Stroll along the trail to the Belvedere viewing platform, where just beneath you, water thunders over the Rhine Falls cliffs. Walk through the castle’s inner courtyard to the Kanzeli and Fischnetz viewing platforms to experience the full glory of the cascade. Ride the panoramic elevator for the best views of this magnificent natural wonder. The castle and falls share a 1,000-year history which comes alive at the Historama exhibition – a fascinating audiovisual journey through the centuries. Return via the town of Schaffhausen with its 16th-century circular Munot Fortress, baroque buildings with bay windows and decorated facades. (Duration: Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Shared Activity & No Transfers; Shared Guide; Included: Entrance fees; Fitness Level: Easy; Operates April to October; Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water; Important: Return via German territory – please carry passports).

You will be transferred from your hotel to Zurich train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Zurich to Interlaken (Duration: 2 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Interlaken train station to your hotel in a private vehicle

Personalized Interlaken Walking Tour

Discover the natural beauty and fascinating history of the traditional resort town of Interlaken, at the center of the Swiss Alps. Start your guided tour at the old town square. Walk to Reformierte Schlosskirche, formerly a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, converted to a castle church, known for its stained-glass work. Stroll along to Höhematte Park for breathtaking views of the Jungfrau mountain and Garden of Friendship, a small Japanese-style garden. Wander onward across the Aare River and marvel at the colors of its glacial waters as you arrive at the tiny village of Unterseen at the foot of Mount Harder, a charming scene with farm animals grazing on pastures. Further up on the forested paths is Hardermannli lookout and Hohbühl Pavilion, from where you can absorb magnificent views of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and the snow-capped Swiss Alps. Hohbühl Pavilion also has a memorial to famous music composers Mendelssohn, Wagner, and Weber. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: Flexible; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Entrance fees not included. Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water).

Group Tour of Jungfraujoch

Enjoy spectacular vistas of the Swiss Alps from the highest railway station in Europe on the Jungfraujoch tour. Arrive at the Outdoor Interlaken Shop to meet your friendly guide. Set off on a round trip that takes you through iconic Alpine destinations, including Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, Kleine Scheidegg and Grindelwald. Along the way, learn about the history and culture of these mountain communities even as you take in the picture postcard views. At Jungfraujoch, take the superfast lift – shooting up 108 metres in just 25 seconds – to arrive at the Sphinx Observation Deck. Home to an international research station, the observatory makes for truly stunning views of the icy heights all around. Pack in the excitement of a Cogwheel train ride, a drive to Grindelwald as well as a short visit of Interlaken before you return to the town center and call it a day. (Duration: Full Day; Shared Activity; Time: 1045 hrs; Fitness Level: Moderate because of high altitudes)

You will be transferred from your hotel to Interlaken train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Interlaken to Geneva (Duration: 3 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Geneva train station to your hotel in a private vehicle

Personalized Geneva Walking Tour

Geneva is full of stunning architecture and history. Explore the beautiful Old Town on this walking tour through a maze of narrow streets. Start with some panoramic views of Lake Geneva from Pont du Mont Blanc bridge. Just across the bridge is Jardin Anglais, with its famous Flower Clock, with a face created by landscaping 6,500 flowering plants and shrubs; it also keeps perfect time. Further along, on the hill, you can see the old church of Temple de la Madeleine with its stunning stained-glass panes. Just beyond it is the grand St. Pierre Cathedral, built in the late 12th century and modified over time, a symbol of the Christian Reformation. Then visit the Reformation Wall, built between 1909 and 1917 along a 16th-century rampart, with the statues of four Genevese reformers at its center. Lastly, walk along the pier and admire the famous Jet d'Eau fountain that throws water 138 meters into the air above the lake. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: Flexible; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Entrance fees not included. Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water).

Group Tour of Geneva and Annecy with Boat Cruise

Visit two alpine cities in one day on this guided bus tour. Start your morning with a 22-mile drive to the French alpine town of Annecy, also known as ‘Venice of the Alps,’ for a walking tour along the pretty town with its colorful houses and medieval monuments. See the iconic 12th- century Palais de l'Isle, a medieval quadrangular construction, previously a court and prison, now an art and history museum, and The Château d’Annecy. Wander along the narrow streets, cobblestone alleys, arcaded houses, shops, art galleries and busy restaurants with lakeside seating. In the afternoon, return to Geneva for a mini train or walking tour of the Old Town. See the Cathedrale de St-Pierre, Place Bourg-de-four, Jardin Anglais Park, and the iconic Flower Clock. Finally take a boat cruise on Lake Geneva, from where you can see the Jet d'Eau, the UN building, Bellerive Castle and other interesting sites. (Duration: Full Day; Time: 0900 AM; Shared Activity & No Transfers; Shared Guide; Included: 1-hour Boat Cruise on Lake Geneva; Fitness Level: Easy; Meals not Included; Operates Daily June-September, May & October on Saturday and Sunday; Please wear sturdy walking shoes. Carry water. Important: Travelling into French territory – please carry passports).

You will be transferred from your hotel to Geneva airport in a private vehicle

International departure

Discover historic cities in Central Europe by rail, starting from artistic and cultural Vienna by the Danube river in Austria and ending in cosmopolitan Geneva, the heart of modern Swiss culture. Diverse experiences await you on this journey so you can enjoy both cosmopolitan capital cities such as Munich, Salzburg and Zurich, as well as the beautiful European countryside including the Danube Valley, Rhine Falls, and the Alpine valleys of Interlaken. From Mozart concerts to personalized excursions in Munich’s Old Town, a visit to the highest train station in Europe, Jungfrauch, and a boat cruise on Lake Geneva, explore Europe to the fullest!

Do you wish to customize this tour and include more bucket-list experiences to your vacation? Our experts are happy to plan a completely tailor-made obligation-free itinerary for you. Just get in touch!

Price & Inclusions

From $6,490 / person

From $8,890 / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

• Accommodation and meals as specified in the itinerary
• Activities and excursions as specified in the itinerary
• Transportation services as specified in the itinerary
• Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact supporting you during your trip
• Carbon emissions offsetting for your trip

Not Included

• Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
• Tips and personal expenses
• Visa and tourism fees
• Travel, health and cancellation insurance
• International airfare

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