6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne and Heidelberg

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dortmund today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lindt Chocolate Museum and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Museum Ludwig. After exploring the museum, head to Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular church is a highlight in Dortmund.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

Say good night to Cologne and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Heidelberg Castle, a top-rated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Heidelberg Tun. This up-and-coming wine cellar is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. This inviting church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Old Bridge Heidelberg is also worth visiting, along with Philosophers’ Way. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining spot in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heidelberg.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s agenda in Heidelberg includes a castle, a park, a monument, a palace, a church and much more! Mittelburg is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Luisenpark, a locally renowned park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Watertower Of Mannheim, a history-steeped monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Heidelberg. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the curiosity-inducing Mannheim Baroque Palace. If you’re looking for more, Jesuit Church, Mannheim is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Destille, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Orange Cafe Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Lenox Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Heidelberg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Iron Footbridge. This visually striking monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Römerberg, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Frankfurt Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Goethe House. This standout museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strobels Dortmund, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lord. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gaststätte Lütge-eck stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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