10-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe to Stuttgart, Munich, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Cologne and surrounding area

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 vibrant destinations - Karlsruhe. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stuttgart. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe. This natural history museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Karlsruhe, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,255 visitors.

Günther-klotz-anlage is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,134 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Japangarten. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 340 reviews.

Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,946 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Stuttgart, 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stuttgart. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Stuttgart by booking a table at Der Zauberlehrling. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative, and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Ritzi Gourmet, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative french, and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Petit Coq, known for its inviting atmosphere. Jigger & Spoon is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Stuttgart. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Schloßplatz. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,914 reviews.

Porsche Museum is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,681 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Wilhelma. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 33,531 reviews.

Mercedes-benz Museum is another outstanding experience in Stuttgart. Around 43,234 travelers have rated this automobile museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 876,109 visitors annually.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Munich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Munich by securing a reservation at Atelier. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit EssZimmer, celebrated for its delectable modern french, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Garçon, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Zephyr Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Deutsches Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 34,868 visitors and gets around 1,250,000 visits every year.

Viktualienmarkt is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,600 travelers.

Munich is also the home of Marienplatz. Around 119,529 people have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Stachus. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 25,328 reviews, a visit to this square is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Munich is also your chance to admire Nymphenburg Palace. This must-visit summer residence enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,669 reviews.

You can learn more about Munich today by going on a tour. Munich offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pusser's, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Ory Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Harry's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Munich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nuremberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Make Eisbachwelle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,432 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at English Garden. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,807 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Bmw Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This automobile museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,183 visitors. Up to 250,000 travelers come to Munich every year to see Bmw Museum with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Bmw Museum, the perfect next stop is Bmw Welt. This music venue is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,637 reviews. Bmw Welt attracts approximately 3,000,000 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Olympiapark. This olympic park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 69,929 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Nuremberg, 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Veles, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Essigbrätlein, known for its delicious innovative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Nuremberg is etz, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative, and regional menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Irish Castle Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Mata Hari Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Undecided Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 6 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 Nuremberg, and Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schöner Brunnen. This extraordinary well is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,679 visitors.

Next, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This top attraction is a castle with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,212 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nuremberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Heidelberg may take around 2 hours 44 min. Upon your arrival in Heidelberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 54,486 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,612 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Gustav in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Gustav offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Lafleur, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french, and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Erno's Bistro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional classic french, and modern menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gute Stute. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt, Königswinter, and Brühl, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Römerberg is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Iron Footbridge. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,403 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Palmengarten. The botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,461 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Frankfurt and set your GPS to Königswinter. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 45 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Schloss Drachenburg, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french, and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Next up is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Cologne Cathedral welcomes 5,000,000 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Duisburg may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

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.