5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Heidelberg
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Düsseldorf, Cologne, Bonn, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, and Freiburg im Breisgau.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Düsseldorf and 1 night in Heidelberg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Düsseldorf, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Cologne Cathedral and Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Old Bridge Heidelberg, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Freiburger Münsterbauverein.
As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Bonn, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, and Freiburg im Breisgau, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
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Day 1
- Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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- Hofgarten
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Düsseldorf is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hofgarten, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Düsseldorf. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Brewery Schumacher, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Brewery im Füchschen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The ASH Düsseldorf is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.
Continue your lively evening at Engelchen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Cherie is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Auberge Rock Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 149 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Rheinboulevard
- Cologne Cathedral
- Beethoven-Haus Bonn
- Beethoven-Denkmal
- Schildergasse
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Düsseldorf for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Cologne and Bonn.
Make sure to visit Schildergasse, a popular street in Cologne. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.
Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Lindt Chocolate Museum, a captivating museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Rheinboulevard, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Cologne Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most widely recognized spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Düsseldorf at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Beethoven-haus Bonn. After exploring the museum, head to the up-and-coming Beethoven-denkmal.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Düsseldorf's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Studio 1, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sakura Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Dusseldorf
- Heidelberg
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Drive 297 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Heidelberg Palace
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Philosophers' Way
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On day 3 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Heidelberg Castle, a widely recognized castle in the city. Then, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped public square.
There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This is one of the city’s most notable history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the often recommended Philosophers’ Way.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heidelberg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Heidelberg, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Café Bar Goodfellas, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 4
- Heidelberg
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 684 km, 7 hours 36 min
- Trinkhalle
- Freiburg Minster
- Bertoldsbrunnen
- Martin's Gate
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heidelberg today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Trinkhalle. This culturally significant museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Freiburger Münsterbauverein and learn what makes this stunning church unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Bertoldsbrunnen. After exploring the public square, head to Martin's Gate. This often recommended monument is a highlight in Heidelberg.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 5
- Dusseldorf - Departure day
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- Burgplatz
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Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Burgplatz, a romantic public square before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.
Savor the flavors at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Okinii Düsseldorf City beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
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