Relaxed 10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Frankfurt and Heidelberg

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a park, a church, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Rheinpark. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cologne Cathedral, which may be one of the most picture-perfect 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 Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most increasingly popular museum. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cologne. The bars in Cologne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Vorgebirgspark, a curiosity-inducing park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Japanese Garden Leverkusen, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Media Park Köln Mbh. This cultural center is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

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

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Cologne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cologne.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Frankfurt!

Palmengarten is must-visit botanical garden and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Städel Museum, a worthwhile art museum, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Frankfurt. If you’re looking for more, Nizza is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Alte Oper, a captivating gem to see in the city.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Frankfurt, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zu den 12 Aposteln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chicago Meatpackers? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zum Gemalten Haus as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Frankfurt.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Frankfurt.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rote Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Frankfurt. Belfordfrankfurt is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Stuttgart. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Heidelberg, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stuttgart. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Porsche Museum and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Killesberg Tower, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Schloßplatz, a romantic public square. Nearby, you will also find Mercedes-benz Museum. This interesting museum is a top place to see in the area.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Heidelberg. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Heidelberg has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Heidelberg.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Bar Goodfellas. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Heidelberg, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Heidelberg, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heidelberg, including a castle, a public square, a historical landmark, a park and much more! Start your day at Heidelberg Castle. This romantic castle is a famous place to see in Heidelberg. Then, wander over to Heidelberger Marktplatz. If standout sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Old Bridge Heidelberg. This romantic historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.

Heidelberg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Neckarwiese (heidelberg) is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Heidelberg.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Heidelberg’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Destille, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Orange Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Lenox Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Speyer and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Koblenz and the city of Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Speyer’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heidelberg behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Speyer welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Technik Museum Speyer, a popular aviation museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

Deutsches Eck is a popular monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a culturally significant castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Cologne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Riese Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bangkok Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Servus Colonia Alpina, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!