12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Rudesheim am Rhein, Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Munich

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cologne Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Museum Ludwig. This museum is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Rheinboulevard. After exploring the boardwalk, head to the curiosity-inducing Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Düsseldorf. You still have 2 nights left in Cologne.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Schloss Benrath is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most popular places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Königsallee, a curiosity-inducing street, known for its enchanting features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This visually striking art gallery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Burgplatz and Rheinpromenade. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Aachen and Monschau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Elisenbrunnen, a locally appreciated monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kreislauf Des Geldes, enchanting visitors with its remarkable appeal. Continue your exploration at Aachen Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. After exploring the zoo, head to the locally appreciated Monschau.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Servus Colonia Alpina. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Say good night to Cologne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bornich, Kaub, and Rudesheim am Rhein. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rudesheim am Rhein, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including an observation deck, a castle, a museum, a street and much more! Start your adventure at Aussicht Spitznack. This up-and-coming observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Pfalzgrafenstein Castle located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Siegfried's Mechanical Museum. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Die Drosselgasse. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this street.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rudesheim am Rhein. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rudesheim am Rhein. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Rudesheim am Rhein includes a castle, a historical landmark, a hiking area, a park and much more! Heidelberg Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Old Bridge Heidelberg, a well-known historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Philosophers’ Way, a romantic hiking area, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sonder Bar (pinte), a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café Bar Goodfellas likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Triberg im Schwarzwald and Freiburg im Breisgau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Heidelberg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Triberg-land is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this idyllic waterfall before continuing your journey. Schwarzwaldmuseum is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Heidelberg.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Triberg Waterfalls. This mesmerizing waterfall is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Martin's Gate.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Freiburg im Breisgau, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Oberkirch, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Süden offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Gallo Freiburg. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Am Funkeneck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Beat Bar Butzemann offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Say good night to Freiburg im Breisgau and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Freiburg im Breisgau for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Freiburg im Breisgau, including a church, a historical landmark, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Freiburger Münsterbauverein. This well-known church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Historical Merchants' Hall, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Freiburg im Breisgau on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Augustiner Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kucci, a top-rated dining spot in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're in the mood for something new, try Goldener Anker, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Martinsbräu. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Freiburg im Breisgau.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hohenschwangau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Freiburg im Breisgau allows for both. Start by heading to Neuschwanstein Castle. This impressive castle provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Linderhof Palace, an enchanting palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Historische Ludwigstraße, an increasingly popular street.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Garmisch-Partenkirchen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fischer's Mohrenplatz, a highly-rated dining destination in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Wolpertinger, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bungalow 7 - Daniel Harry Mühle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Servus Musicbar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐂𝐚𝐟é / 𝐁𝐚𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐡, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Head back to your accommodation in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!