9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dresden to Leipzig, Weimar, and Nuremberg
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dresden, Leipzig, Weimar, Erfurt, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Meissen. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Dresden, 1 night in Leipzig, 2 nights in Weimar, and 2 nights in Nuremberg. 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 Dresden, 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. Zwinger and Nuremberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Church Of Our Lady, learn more about the unique Monument To The Battle Of The Nations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marktplatz Leipzig.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dresden, Leipzig, Weimar, Erfurt, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Meissen, 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
- Dresden - Arrival day
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- Golden Rider
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Say hello to Dresden! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dresden for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Dresden 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 Golden Rider, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Dresden. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Dresden, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Dresden. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Luisenhof, Dresden, a popular restaurant in Dresden. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bakery Wippler GmbH, a hidden gem nestled in Dresden. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Hebeda's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Blondes likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dresden
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Drive 2 km, 37 min
- Semperoper
- Zwinger
- Dresden Transport Museum
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
- Altstadt
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dresden for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Altstadt, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Dresden. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Dresden. Begin your sightseeing with Semperoper. This captivating opera house is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Zwinger, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Dresden, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dresden Transport Museum. This worthwhile museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Church Of Our Lady, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Brühl's Terrace is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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 Dresden. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Ristorante "Mamma Mia", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant brennNessel Dresden boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old Beams Pub & Dining. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dresden.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gin House Dresden stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Madness Bar Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Nightfly Shisha And Cocktail is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 3
- Dresden
- Leipzig
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Drive 133 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Wildpark Leipzig
- Monument to the Battle of the Nations
- Botanical Garden Leipzig
- Bach-Museum Leipzig
- St. Thomas Church
- Marktplatz Leipzig
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Leipzig. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leipzig, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Dresden is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Wildpark Leipzig, an intriguing wildlife reserve that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Monument To The Battle Of The Nations, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Botanical Garden Leipzig. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dresden at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Bach-museum Leipzig. After exploring the museum, head to the beloved St. Thomas Church. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Marktplatz Leipzig, a place of photogenic interest in Dresden.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Leipzig. Leipzig offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Leipzig's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at IMPERII, a popular restaurant in Leipzig. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Leipzig at Seminaris Hotel Leipzig, 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 Lerchennest Leipzig. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Leipzig tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mephisto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Brick's Der Cocktail provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Skala offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Leipzig
- Weimar
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Drive 130 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Park an der Ilm
- Duchess Anna Amalia Library
- Weimarhaus
- Goethe–Schiller Monument
- Goethe's House
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Weimar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Weimar, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Park A Der Ilm, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Duchess Anna Amalia Library, another must-visit landmark and intriguing library renowned for its photogenic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Leipzig by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Weimarhaus. This history-steeped museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Leipzig experience. We also recommend visiting Goethe–schiller Monument, an underrated monument. Nearby, you'll also find Goethe's House, ready to add charm to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Weimar, 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 Weimar. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Smugglers Irish Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Benediktiner Wirtshaus im joHanns Hof beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SCHNITZELOASE Weimar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Weimar tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Zum Falken, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zur Alten Laterne Weimar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Loft - Cocktailbar & Tapas. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Say good night to Weimar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Weimar
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Drive 57 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Bernd the bread
- Old Synagogue
- Domplatz
- Erfurt Cathedral
- Egapark
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Weimar, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Erfurt. You still have 1 night left in Weimar.
Weimar is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Bernd The Bread, a worthwhile sightseeing destination that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Synagogue, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Domplatz. This public square is one of the city’s most captivating spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Weimar at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Erfurt Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the interesting Egapark.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Weimar.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Weimar. 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.
Dine in style at Restaurant Primavera, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café & Restaurant Frauentor boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cielo Weimar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Weimar.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Reservebank offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Peters Bar & Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Havana Club Weimar Bar & Pension is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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.
Day 6
- Weimar
- Nuremberg
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Drive 254 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Ehekarussell
- Albrecht Dürer's House
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Schöner Brunnen
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nuremberg, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nuremberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Ehekarussell, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Albrecht Dürer's House, one of the most intriguing places to see in Weimar. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Nuremberg Castle. Wander around and soak in the breathtaking atmosphere this castle offers. Then, head to Schöner Brunnen, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nuremberg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nuremberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Burgwächter, a highly-rated dining destination in Nuremberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Alte Küch'n & Im Keller, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nuremberg this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Irish Castle Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Mata Hari Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Undecided Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 7
- Nuremberg
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 1 min
- Bamberg Cathedral
- Bamberg old town
- old town hall
- Naturkundemuseum Bamberg
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nuremberg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the worthwhile Bamberg Cathedral, a culturally significant church in Nuremberg. Next, go to Bamberg Old Town.
After visiting Bamberg Cathedral and Bamberg Old Town, have a stroll along Nuremberg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rathaus. This UNESCO world heritage-designated city hall offers a unique experience. Naturkundemuseum Bamberg is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nuremberg and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nuremberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Katzentempel Nürnberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nuremberg.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, known for its lively atmosphere. Bierwerk is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 8
- Nuremberg
- Dresden
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Drive 333 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Albrechtsburg
- Meissen Cathedral
- Marktplatz
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Meissen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dresden. 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 Nuremberg allows for both. Start by heading to Albrechtsburg. This underrated castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Meissen Cathedral, a romantic church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Marktplatz, a worthwhile public square.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Dresden, 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 wonderful meal at Ristorante e Pensione La Campagnola, a top-rated dining spot in Dresden. If you're in the mood for something new, try Watzke am Goldenen Reiter, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Carolaschlösschen Dresden. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dresden.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sonderbar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Newtown Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Wohnzimmer Dresden, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 9
- Dresden - Departure day
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- The Grand Garden of Dresden
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Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dresden 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, begin at The Grand Garden Of Dresden. This well-known park is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dresden.
Savor the flavors at Las Tapas, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Wilma Wunder Dresden beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Dresden. 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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