9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling north to Mainz, Cologne, Hanover, Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Stuttgart, 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 Mainz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Stuttgart, including an observation deck, a museum, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Stuttgart Tv Tower. This popular observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Mercedes-benz Museum located in Stuttgart for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Wilhelma. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Porsche Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this museum.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Mainz by securing a reservation at Geberts Weinstuben. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of classic and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try FAVORITE restaurant, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Legends Café & Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Wallenstein Cafe & Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Mainz. August is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Mainz, Koblenz, and Keldung. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Mainz allows for both. Start by heading to Mainz Cathedral. This increasingly popular church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, an awe-inspiring castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Eck, a locally renowned monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the interesting Eltz Castle.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set aside time today to explore Schildergasse, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Cologne Cathedral. This top-rated church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Lindt Chocolate Museum, a visually striking museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand, a spectacular amusement park.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 Duisburg and Essen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Duisburg Zoo, a popular zoo in the city. Then, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable park.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This is one of the city’s most captivating instagrammable spots of interest.

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.

As you explore more of Hanover, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Handwerk offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Jante, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Votum, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Seña after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sternwarte, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover 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!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Frankfurt and Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the popular Römerberg, an enchanting public square in Frankfurt. Next, go to Iron Footbridge.

After visiting Römerberg and Iron Footbridge, have a stroll along Frankfurt's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Palmengarten. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a unique experience. Heidelberg Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Karlsruhe. 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 Karlsruhe. 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe by booking a table at Bistro Margarete, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional regional menu. For a different culinary experience in Karlsruhe, sein shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, TAWA YAMA FINE is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at Phono Craftbeer Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Electric Eel, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jean-claude Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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.