11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling west to Heidelberg, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hanover, and Frankfurt

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Stuttgart. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Stuttgart on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular observation deck, Stuttgart Tv Tower. Afterward, continue to Mercedes-benz Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Stuttgart’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Wilhelma. This locally renowned zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Porsche Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

Visit Königstraße in Stuttgart for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Königstraße has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Stuttgart. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Speisemeisterei, renowned for its delicious creative and innovative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Ritzi Gourmet, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Si-centrum Stuttgart, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Mata Hari, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mocha Espresso & Wine likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Pforzheim, Bad Wildbad, and Sinsheim, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Wildpark Pforzheim. This beloved wildlife reserve is an awe-inspiring place to see in Stuttgart. Continue your discovery at Gasometer Pforzheim, an eye-catching museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Stuttgart, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald. This captivating canopy walk offers a stunning encounter with Stuttgart. Next, make your way to Technikmuseum Sinsheim to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Stuttgart.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heidelberg. 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 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Bar Goodfellas is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Watertower Of Mannheim. This popular monument is an enchanting place to see in Heidelberg. Continue your discovery at Luisenpark, a noteworthy park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heidelberg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Castle. This impressive castle offers a grand encounter with Heidelberg. Next, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Heidelberg.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Santa Lucia, 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 VINCIdue, 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 Essighaus, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Destille, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Orange Cafe Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Lenox Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 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 Speyer and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Heidelberg is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Technik Museum Speyer, a captivating aviation museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Deutsches Eck, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This castle is one of the town’s most captivating spots.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an amusement park, a museum, a church, a zoo and much more! Begin your adventure at Phantasialand. This is an extraordinary amusement park you should not miss. Another must-see is Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cologne Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Zoological Garden, another of the village’s notable attractions.

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

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 delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect zoo before continuing your journey. Gasometer Oberhausen is your next stop. This notable museum is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This history-steeped park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Duisburg Zoo.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Bottrop. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Museum Folkwang, an intriguing museum in the city. Then, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and soak in the ambiance of this UNESCO world heritage-listed museum.

After exploring the laser tag arena, visit the underrated Tetrahedron In Bottrop.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hanover's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Votum, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Seña, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sternwarte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Frankfurt, 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 Stuttgart. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Frankfurt’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Römerberg. This symbolic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Iron Footbridge, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Zoo Frankfurt, a captivating zoo. For a change of scene, check out Alte Oper, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Palmengarten. This botanical garden is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Wielandshöhe, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Carls Brauhaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

Keep the evening going at Reboots, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Barbados Stuttgart, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!