9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dresden to Leipzig, Weimar, and Nuremberg
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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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dresden. 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 Dresden, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Luisenhof, Dresden boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bakery Wippler GmbH. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dresden.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hebeda's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Blondes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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.
Altstadt is a fantastic place you can explore today in Dresden. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Dresden-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dresden, including an opera house, a palace, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Semperoper. This locally renowned opera house is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Zwinger, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Dresden 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 Dresden Transport Museum, a beloved museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of Our Lady and Brühl's Terrace.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dresden. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante "Mamma Mia", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant brennNessel Dresden? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Old Beams Pub & Dining as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dresden.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gin House Dresden, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Madness Bar Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Nightfly Shisha And Cocktail offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Head back to your accommodation in Dresden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Leipzig. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leipzig. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dresden today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Wildpark Leipzig. This peaceful wildlife reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Monument To The Battle Of The Nations and learn what makes this breathtaking monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Botanical Garden Leipzig. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Bach-museum Leipzig. This underrated museum is a highlight in Dresden. As your day continues, stop by St. Thomas Church, known for its culturally significant features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the locally renowned Marktplatz Leipzig. Enjoy exploring this incredible public square at your own pace.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Leipzig, 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 Leipzig. 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 IMPERII, an iconic dining spot in Leipzig. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Seminaris Hotel Leipzig, a popular restaurant in Leipzig. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Lerchennest Leipzig, a hidden gem nestled in Leipzig. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Mephisto, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brick's Der Cocktail is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Skala is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Weimar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Weimar, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Leipzig, including a park, a library, a museum, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Park A Der Ilm. This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Duchess Anna Amalia Library located in Leipzig for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Weimarhaus. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Goethe–schiller Monument. Visitors usually appreciate the heritage-rich features of this monument. Next up is Goethe's House, a highly recommended museum.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Weimar. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Weimar, 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 Smugglers Irish Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Weimar. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Benediktiner Wirtshaus im joHanns Hof, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SCHNITZELOASE Weimar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Weimar this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Zum Falken, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Zur Alten Laterne Weimar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Loft - Cocktailbar & Tapas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Bernd The Bread. Continue your discovery at Old Synagogue, a culturally significant synagogue with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Weimar, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Domplatz. This popular public square offers an enchanting encounter with Weimar. Next, make your way to Erfurt Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Egapark, a captivating botanical garden that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Weimar.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Weimar.
As you explore more of Weimar, 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 lovely meal at Restaurant Primavera, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café & Restaurant Frauentor is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cielo Weimar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Weimar tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Reservebank. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Peters Bar & Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Havana Club Weimar Bar & Pension, another top-rated bar in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nuremberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nuremberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Weimar, including a museum, an art installation, a castle, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This captivating museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ehekarussell, which may be one of the most detailed places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Weimar 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 Albrecht Dürer's House, an often recommended museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Nuremberg Castle and Schöner Brunnen.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nuremberg. Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Burgwächter, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Alte Küch'n & Im Keller beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nuremberg tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Irish Castle Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Mata Hari Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Undecided Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Nuremberg, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s agenda in Nuremberg includes a church, a historical landmark, a city hall, a museum and much more! Bamberg Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Bamberg Old Town, a worthwhile historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rathaus, a historic city hall, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nuremberg and your accommodation.
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.
Dine in style at Katzentempel Nürnberg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nuremberg.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ludwigs Bar & Cafe after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bierwerk, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Nuremberg
- Dresden
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Drive 333 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Albrechtsburg
- Meissen Cathedral
- Marktplatz
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Meissen, 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 Dresden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Nuremberg. Your adventure starts at Albrechtsburg, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Meissen Cathedral. This often recommended church is known for its culturally significant appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Nuremberg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Marktplatz. This history-steeped public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dresden, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dresden's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Ristorante e Pensione La Campagnola, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Watzke am Goldenen Reiter boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Carolaschlösschen Dresden. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dresden.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Sonderbar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Newtown Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Wohnzimmer Dresden likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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 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 captivating park is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dresden’s shopping center, the lively Prager Straße. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dresden.
Dine in style at Las Tapas, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Wilma Wunder Dresden boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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