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

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cologne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cologne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cologne Zoological Garden, an interesting zoo that everyone visiting Cologne should see. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This photogenic museum is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Cologne Cathedral, an UNESCO world heritage-listed church popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

Dine in style at SAVOY Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Reichard. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 1 place, which are Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg, where will spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Neurath, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Heidelberg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 35 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Heidelberg Zoo and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Philosophers’ Way, another highlight in Heidelberg. When you’re done exploring the hiking area, continue to Old Bridge Heidelberg, an enchanting historical landmark.

Nearby, you will also find Heidelberg Castle. This spectacular castle is a top place to see in the area.

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.

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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sonder Bar (pinte) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Hohenschwangau and Horn.

When you’ve had your share of Munich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hohenschwangau. Your travel time is around 1 hour 47 min.

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

Set your GPS to Horn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Horn beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau, a beloved spa that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Gasthaus Isarthor, 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 Zum Dürnbräu, 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 Zum Alten Markt, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pusser's. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Ory Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Harry's provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 9 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 Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Nuremberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 1 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 sights, head to Schöner Brunnen, a locally appreciated monument in Nuremberg. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg. This locally appreciated church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Nuremberg Castle is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant castle in the region.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Strobels Dortmund, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Lord as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dortmund.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!