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

Welcome to Stuttgart, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Stuttgart's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Stuttgart. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Stuttgart by booking a table at Der Zauberlehrling, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Speisemeisterei, renowned for its delectable creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Ritzi Gourmet, a local gem known for its delightful creative french and modern cuisine in Stuttgart. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le petit Coq, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Jigger & Spoon offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stuttgart. Schwarz Weiß Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Stuttgart. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Stuttgart TV Tower. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,522 reviews.

Next up is Mercedes-Benz Museum. This automobile museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 42,800 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Mercedes-Benz Museum welcomes 876,109 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Wilhelma. This zoo has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 33,034 reviews.

Porsche Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This automobile museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,816 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Stuttgart, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Stuttgart below.

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

Dine in style at Carls Brauhaus, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Japanisches Restaurant KICHO boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Paulaner am alten Postplatz. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Stuttgart.

Keep the evening going at SI-Centrum Stuttgart, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mata Hari, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is reBOOTS, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Sinsheim, Schwetzingen, and Mannheim, 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This extraordinary technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,645 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sinsheim, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schwetzingen may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Schwetzingen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Schwetzingen Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,896 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.

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

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 4 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.

Drop by the renowned Römerberg. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Iron Footbridge. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,044 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,563 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Alte Oper. This concert hall and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,371 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palmengarten. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,050 travelers, this botanical garden is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Frankfurt.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. You might also want to secure a reservation at Strobels Dortmund. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vater&Sohn stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, CENTRAL Bar & More Dortmund offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gaststätte Lütge-Eck is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

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 Essen may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,866 visitors.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

Next up is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,129 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Tiger & Turtle. This point of interest has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,699 reviews.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Toddy Tapper. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Soul Bar Cologne offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Bonn. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Bonn, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,523 visitors.

Rheinaue is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,226 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bonn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Drachenburg. This extraordinary château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,280 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heisterbacherrott. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Siebengebirge. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,644 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, 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 book a table at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Servus Colonia Alpina, 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 Little Link. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Brühl, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brühl and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cologne, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 visitors.

Cologne Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 5,000,000 people visit this catholic cathedral every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Phantasialand. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 89,377 reviews. Each year, 1,750,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

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

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Jameson Pub Cologne, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Barney Vallely's, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Gruber's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Koblenz and Speyer. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,199 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Deutsches Eck. Deutsches Eck is a headland with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,856 reviews.

After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Speyer. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive in Speyer, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Technic Museum Speyer one of your first sightseeing stops in Speyer. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,991 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sonder Bar (Pinte) after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Destille, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 9 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 Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Neckarwiese (Heidelberg) your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,998 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Old Bridge Heidelberg. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Heidelberger Marktplatz is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,651 visitors.

When you’re finished at Heidelberger Marktplatz, the perfect next stop is Pharmacy Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 929 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Heidelberg Palace. This museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,117 reviews.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ambiente Africa, an iconic dining spot in Stuttgart. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ABACCO'S STEAKHOUSE Stuttgart, a popular restaurant in Stuttgart. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of 5 Gourmet Restaurant & Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Stuttgart. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. FOU FOU | Cocktail- und Champagnerbar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Kap Tormentoso, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Waranga. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 10 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Stuttgart before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Stuttgart’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Germany. Keep the spirit of your trip to Germany alive with these special souvenirs.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Killesberg Tower. This extraordinary observation tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,175 visitors.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Triple B - Beef Burger Brothers, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Stuttgart. 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!