10-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Munich, Nuremberg, and Frankfurt

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Hörde or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dortmund. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Zum Alten Markt, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ringhotel Drees offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Strobels Dortmund is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dortmund.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vater&Sohn, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. CENTRAL Bar & More Dortmund is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gaststätte Lütge-Eck is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dortmund, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cologne may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Cologne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to German Football Museum. This sports museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,349 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Dortmund U-Tower. This office building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,532 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,482 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Dortmund Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,486 visitors.

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

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Limani offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Toddy Tapper, known for its inviting atmosphere. Soul Bar Cologne is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 2 vibrant destinations - Cologne and Koblenz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cologne Cathedral is a great place to start. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Cologne Cathedral attracts more than 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Old Market. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,740 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Cologne Chocolate Museum. The museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Koblenz, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,856 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Heidelberg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stuttgart, which will be your home away from home for 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: Stuttgart. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 32 min. When you arrive in Stuttgart, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Palace. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,117 visitors.

Next, make your way to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,651 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Heidelberg Zoo. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,439 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Stuttgart. Stuttgart offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Stuttgart, 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Le Théâtre, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Wirtshaus Garbe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Stuttgart tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le petit Coq. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jigger & Spoon offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Schwarz Weiß Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 5 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 Munich. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Munich. This car ride takes around 2 hours 33 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schloßplatz, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,355 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Porsche Museum. This automobile museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,816 travelers.

Wilhelma is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,034 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Mercedes-Benz Museum. This well-loved automobile museum boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 42,800 reviews. In a single year, approximately 876,109 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Munich, 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 Munich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Little London / Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Munich at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Zum Dürnbräu. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Munich tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Zephyr Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Pusser's, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Boilerman Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Munich. You have 1 night left in Munich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stachus. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,791 visitors.

Eisbachwelle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,940 visitors.

English Garden is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,616 visitors.

Your discoveries in Munich do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Munich on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As you explore more of Munich, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Andechser am Dom, an iconic dining spot in Munich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Augustiner-Keller, a popular restaurant in Munich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Nur Einmal Leben, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at The Keg Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Havana Club, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 7 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 Munich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nuremberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Nuremberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nuremberg beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Marienplatz. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,139 reviews.

Next up is Viktualienmarkt. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,191 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is BMW Museum. This automobile museum has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,349 reviews. Every year, 250,000 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

BMW Welt is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This music venue has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,941 reviews. This popular attraction gets 3,000,000 visits every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Olympiapark. This olympic park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 68,103 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nuremberg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nuremberg.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Restaurant Burgwächter, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Alte Küch'n & Im Keller boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Katzentempel Nürnberg. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nuremberg.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Irish Castle Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, bierwerk offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nuremberg.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Nuremberg and Würzburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 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 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Schöner Brunnen one of your first sightseeing stops in Nuremberg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,461 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Nuremberg Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This castle is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,670 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Würzburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Würzburg Residence one of your first sightseeing stops in Würzburg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,366 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This schloss attracts 350,000 visitors every year.

Old Main Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,308 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Marienberg Fortress. This fortress has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,851 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Im Herzen Afrikas, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Apfelwein Dax, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ariston Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gleis 25 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Frankfurt. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Dortmund’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Frankfurt behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 47 min. Dortmund welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Römerberg, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,391 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Iron Footbridge is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,044 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Frankfurt is Zoo Frankfurt. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,563 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Frankfurt offers an experience you will remember.

Alte Oper is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Frankfurt. This concert hall promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,371 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Palmengarten. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,050 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try ALEX Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

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.

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.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Dortmund’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Germany. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Germany forever.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Atlantico Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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!