10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne, Neurath, Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Lindau, and Munich

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Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 10-day road trip in Germany! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Cologne, Braubach, Neurath, Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Freiburg im Breisgau, Friedrichshafen, Lindau, Munich, Hohenschwangau, Horn, and Nuremberg.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Cologne, 1 night in Neurath, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Freiburg im Breisgau, 1 night in Lindau, and 2 nights in Munich. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Dortmund, 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. Marienplatz and Neuschwanstein Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Cologne Cathedral, learn more about the unique English Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberg Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Braubach, Neurath, Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Freiburg im Breisgau, Friedrichshafen, Lindau, Munich, Hohenschwangau, Horn, and Nuremberg, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
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Welcome to Dortmund, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Dortmund before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dortmund 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 Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dortmund. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Alten Markt boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ringhotel Drees. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vater&sohn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
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Drive 104 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Cologne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne, where will spend 1 night.

Cologne Zoological Garden is must-visit zoo and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, a historic church, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at SAVOY Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Reichard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Neurath
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Marksburg
  • Stolzenfels Castle
  • Wernerkapelle
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On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Braubach, Koblenz-Stolzenfels, and Neurath are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Neurath, where you will stay for 1 night.

Catch Marksburg before the crowds roll in. This enchanting castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Stolzenfels Castle, a must-visit castle in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Wernerkapelle, an increasingly popular church.

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

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Neurath
  • Heidelberg
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Drive 131 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Heidelberg Zoo
  • Philosophers' Way
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • Heidelberg Palace
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make a stop at Heidelberg Zoo. This notable zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Philosophers’ Way located in Neurath for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Old Bridge Heidelberg. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Heidelberg Castle. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this castle.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Café Bar Goodfellas is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heidelberg
  • Freiburg im Breisgau
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Drive 246 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Triberg-Land
  • Schwarzwaldmuseum
  • Triberg Waterfalls
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Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Triberg im Schwarzwald. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll spend 1 night.

One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Triberg-land. This idyllic waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Schwarzwaldmuseum and learn what makes this respected museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Triberg Waterfalls.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Oberkirch, an iconic dining spot in Freiburg im Breisgau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Süden, a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Gallo Freiburg, a hidden gem nestled in Freiburg im Breisgau. 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 Bar Am Funkeneck, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Beat Bar Butzemann provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Freiburg im Breisgau
  • Lindau (Bodensee)
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Mainau
  • Island Mainau
  • Uferpromenade Friedrichshafen
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Constance and Friedrichshafen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lindau, where you'll spend 1 night.

Mainau is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This eye-catching botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Island Mainau, another must-visit landmark and interesting botanical garden renowned for its remarkable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Freiburg im Breisgau by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Uferpromenade Friedrichshafen. This enchanting boardwalk is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Freiburg im Breisgau experience.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lindau's best restaurants.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Lindau (Bodensee)
  • Munich
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Drive 195 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • BMW Museum
  • English Garden
  • Marienplatz
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Munich. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Munich, where will spend 2 nights.

No visit to Lindau is complete without Bmw Museum. This locally renowned museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to English Garden, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Lindau, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Marienplatz. This iconic public square is a traveler-favorite.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Little London / Bar & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ginkgo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Munich.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Munich
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Drive 255 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Hohenschwangau Castle
  • Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Königliche Kristall-Therme am Kurpark Schwangau
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On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you have 1 night left to stay.

To truly experience Munich, make sure to drop by Hohenschwangau Castle. This interesting castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Munich. This spa is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gasthaus Isarthor, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zum Dürnbräu offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zum Alten Markt. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Munich.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pusser's, known for its lively atmosphere. Ory Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Harry's offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Munich
  • Dortmund
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Drive 611 km, 7 hours 16 min

  • Schöner Brunnen
  • St Sebald - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg
  • Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
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On day 9 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Nuremberg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Schöner Brunnen is an essential stop in Munich. This beloved monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg, a majestic church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Nuremberg Castle, a notable castle.

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

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

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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Day 10 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund 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, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden before you head out.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Dortmund’s popular marketplace, Westenhellweg. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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