10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Füssen, Munich, and Nuremberg

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Cologne. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Visiting Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is always a good idea. This beloved sightseeing destination is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Rheinboulevard, a must-see boardwalk 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This interesting museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Museum Ludwig, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Cologne Cathedral These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Bring home unique finds from Cologne's bustling shopping hub, Schildergasse. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Schildergasse offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heidelberg. This car ride takes around 2 hours 48 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Heidelberg Castle, an astonishing castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Kornmarkt and admire its romantic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a beloved church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Old Bridge Heidelberg, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Philosophers’ Way, an eye-catching place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heidelberg. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Heidelberg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Triberg im Schwarzwald and Hausach. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Freiburg im Breisgau, where will spend 1 night.

After soaking in Heidelberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Triberg im Schwarzwald. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 16 min. When you arrive in Triberg im Schwarzwald, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Triberg-land, a frequently visited waterfall in Triberg im Schwarzwald. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Schwarzwaldmuseum. This intriguing museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Triberg Waterfalls is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic waterfall in the region.

When you’ve had your share of Triberg im Schwarzwald, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hausach. Your travel time is around 30 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Husen Castle, an increasingly popular castle that everyone visiting Hausach should see.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Oberkirch, a highly-rated dining destination in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Süden, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Gallo Freiburg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Freiburg im Breisgau this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar Am Funkeneck, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Beat Bar Butzemann, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Füssen, Hohenschwangau, and Waltenhofen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Füssen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Freiburg im Breisgau and set your GPS to Füssen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 37 min. Upon reaching Füssen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Lechfall is an up-and-coming waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Hohenschwangau may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Hohenschwangau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Hohenschwangau Castle, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Neuschwanstein Castle, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Marienbrücke, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area.

After soaking in Hohenschwangau’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Waltenhofen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 4 min. When you arrive in Waltenhofen, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit St. Coloman, a locally appreciated church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Füssen. Füssen 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 Füssen's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Bayrish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Füssen and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Munich. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Munich, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Munich, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Füssen to Munich may take around 1 hour 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Munich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Deutsches Museum, a locally renowned museum known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Viktualienmarkt, an extraordinary food market.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Hofgarten and uncover the details of this enchanting park. Make sure to also explore Odeonsplatz, a well-known public square. For your last stop, consider Marienplatz, a visually striking public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Munich is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Munich.

Don’t miss out on dining at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ginkgo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Garçon, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Holy Spirit 1 Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Munich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make time for Nymphenburg Palace, an interesting palace that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Bmw Museum, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Pinakothek Der Moderne. This art gallery is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Munich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit English Garden.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Munich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zum Dürnbräu beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zum Alten Markt. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Munich tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pusser's, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Ory Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Harry's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Nuremberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Nuremberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nuremberg may take around 1 hour 56 min. Upon your arrival in Nuremberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Street Of Human Rights and explore the photogenic features. Next, make your way to Toy Museum, another highlight in Nuremberg. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Albrecht Dürer's House, a standout museum.

Nearby, you will also find Nuremberg Castle. This notable castle is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Frauenkirche, a visually striking church that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Burgwächter, an iconic dining spot in Nuremberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Alte Küch'n & Im Keller, a popular restaurant in Nuremberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg, a hidden gem nestled in Nuremberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Irish Castle Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mata Hari Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Undecided Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Say good night to Nuremberg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Würzburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nuremberg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Würzburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Würzburg Residence. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Wurzburg Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Old Main Bridge. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Marienberg Fortress, a well-known castle.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!