13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne, Cochem, Trier, Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Stuttgart

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a park, an art gallery, a public square, a boardwalk and much more! Begin your adventure at Schloss Benrath. This is a locally renowned palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Hofgarten, an up-and-coming park in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Burgplatz, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Rheinpromenade, a romantic place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf to your itinerary. This often recommended boardwalk offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Düsseldorf.

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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sakura Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Engel Rockbar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

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 Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Düsseldorf promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, enjoy Lindt Chocolate Museum, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Cologne Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Old Market, a well-known public square, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at SAVOY Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Reichard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Grid Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse 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 4 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 Bonn. You still have 1 night left in Cologne.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a palace, a botanical garden, a monument, a museum, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Poppelsdorf Palace. This increasingly popular palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Botanical Garden, Bonn, which may be one of the most majestic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Beethoven-denkmal, an increasingly popular monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Beethoven-haus Bonn and Rheinaue.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cochem and Keldung, 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 Cochem. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Reichsburg Cochem, an instagrammable castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Eltz Castle, one of the town’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a popular restaurant in Cochem. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kelsey's Eck, where the evening is just getting started.

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 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Trier. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Trier. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Cochem. Your adventure starts at Karl-marx-house Museum, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Petrusbrunnen. This often recommended monument is known for its respected appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cochem's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Liebfrauenkirche. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Porta Nigra is also worth visiting.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Trier, 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 Trier, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste, a top-rated dining destination in Trier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Brasserie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Monte Petris. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trier this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Chrome!, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Studio 11 Gbr offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Simplicissimus. 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 Trier and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Trier today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Philosophers’ Way. This romantic hiking area will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Old Bridge Heidelberg and learn what makes this symbolic historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Heidelberger Marktplatz. After exploring the public square, head to Kornmarkt. This underrated public square is a highlight in Trier. As your day continues, stop by Heidelberg Castle, known for its visually striking features.

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 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sonder Bar (pinte), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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

Make sure to visit Hauptstraße, a popular street in Schwetzingen. 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Schwetzingen Palace, a curiosity-inducing castle in the town. Then, head to Watertower Of Mannheim and soak in the ambiance of this respected monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Mannheim Baroque Palace. This is one of the town’s most intriguing visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the palace, visit the popular Luisenpark.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider VINCIdue, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essighaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

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.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s itinerary in Freiburg im Breisgau covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a museum, a historical landmark, a church, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Bertoldsbrunnen. This worthwhile public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Augustiner Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Historical Merchants' Hall. This intriguing historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Freiburger Münsterbauverein, where you can take in grand features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Ruin Zähringer Burg. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Kucci, an iconic dining spot in Freiburg im Breisgau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Goldener Anker, a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Martinsbräu, a hidden gem nestled in Freiburg im Breisgau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 11 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 Stuttgart. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Freiburg im Breisgau on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Killesberg Tower is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Staatsgalerie Stuttgart is your next stop. This frequently visited art gallery is one of the best-rated sights in Freiburg im Breisgau.

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 Mercedes-benz Museum. This awe-inspiring museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Schloßplatz and Jubiläumssäule.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Tavern Waldhorn, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Le Théâtre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Wirtshaus Garbe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stuttgart.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Petit Coq offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Jigger & Spoon is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Schwarz Weiß Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This often recommended public square is a visually striking place to see in Stuttgart. Continue your discovery at Medieval Crime Museum, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Stuttgart, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to German Christmas Museum. This up-and-coming museum offers a photogenic encounter with Stuttgart. 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.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a highly-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're eager to try something different, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!