10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne, Munich, and Heidelberg

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dortmund has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Dortmund by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dortmund, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at German Football Museum, a locally appreciated museum in the city. Then, head to Museum Ostwall and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Dortmund, and when you are ready for more, go to Dortmund U-tower. This is one of the city’s most beloved visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the often recommended Florianturm. Not far away, you'll also find Westfalenpark. This park is a serene highlight in Dortmund.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dortmund. 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.

Savor the flavors at Strobels Dortmund, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Lord. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dortmund tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dortmund. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Cologne Zoological Garden is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most captivating places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Malakoffturm, a frequently visited monument, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Cologne Cathedral and Old Market. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Munich for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Füssen and Hohenschwangau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Munich is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Stadtbrunnen, a worthwhile sightseeing destination that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Lechfall, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Hohenschwangau Castle. This castle is one of the town’s most popular 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 Marienbrücke. After exploring the sightseeing destination, head to the impressive Neuschwanstein Castle.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Clou, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Munich at Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, 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 Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Boilerman Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Koli's Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Munich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Munich. Begin your sightseeing with Heidelberg Castle. This impressive castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kornmarkt, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Munich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This well-known historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Philosophers’ Way, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!