10-Day Germany Road Trip from Stuttgart traveling west to Frankfurt, Hanover, Essen, Cologne, Koblenz, and Karlsruhe

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Tavern Waldhorn, a top-rated dining spot in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Le Théâtre, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wirtshaus Garbe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Stuttgart.

Continue your lively evening at Le Petit Coq, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Jigger & Spoon is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Schwarz Weiß Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Stuttgart has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Stuttgart by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Stuttgart Tv Tower. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,754 reviews.

Mercedes-benz Museum is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 43,234 reviews. The attraction welcomes 876,109 visitors every year.

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.

Porsche Museum is another outstanding experience in Stuttgart. Around 28,681 travelers have rated this automobile museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The attraction gets an estimated 876,109 visitors every year.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Stuttgart by reserving a table at Der Zauberlehrling. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Speisemeisterei, recognized for its delicious creative, and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Ritzi Gourmet, a local favorite known for its delightful creative french, and modern cuisine in Stuttgart. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative french, and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Si-centrum Stuttgart, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Mata Hari is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mocha Espresso & Wine also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg, and Mannheim. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stuttgart, 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 1 hour 36 min. Upon your arrival in Heidelberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Heidelberg Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,486 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Old Bridge Heidelberg is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,612 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Mannheim. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Luisenpark is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,730 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Watertower Of Mannheim. This water tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,295 travelers.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lafleur is one of the best restaurants for modern french, and creative cuisine in Frankfurt. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Erno's Bistro. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic french, and modern cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Gute Stute, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Frankfurt. Gleis 25 is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Frankfurt, and Kassel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 visitors.

When you’re finished at Römerberg, head to Iron Footbridge. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,403 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palmengarten. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,461 visitors.

After soaking in Frankfurt’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kassel. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 5 min. When you arrive in Kassel, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Karlsaue, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,206 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hanover, 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 Hanover. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Handwerk offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern, and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Jante, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative, and modern 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 Votum, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative, and modern menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Seña, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sternwarte. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

On day 5 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 Hanover, Gelsenkirchen, and Bottrop. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,074 visitors.

Next, make your way to Hanover Zoo. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gelsenkirchen. This car ride takes around 2 hours 24 min.

Make Nordstern Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Gelsenkirchen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,453 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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 Essen. Essen 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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern, and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Schote, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Südrock Rock Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gentlem is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen, and Duisburg, 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 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 visitors.

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 Essen to Duisburg may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Continue your journey at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 travelers from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cologne, 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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french, and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern, and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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

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 70,814 visitors. Cologne Cathedral attracts more than 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Cologne Zoological Garden. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Phantasialand. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Attracting more than 1,750,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Koblenz, 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 in Koblenz. 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 Koblenz by booking a table at Verbene, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Keep the evening going at Spökes, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dubai Shisha Lounge, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Excalibur - The Rock Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz, Keldung, and Speyer. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Karlsruhe, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Koblenz, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 visitors.

Deutsches Eck is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Keldung’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Koblenz behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Keldung welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Eltz Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 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 Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Karlsruhe by securing a reservation at Bistro Margarete. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit sein, celebrated for its delectable modern 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 TAWA YAMA FINE, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern, and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Phono Craftbeer Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Rust, and Sinsheim. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rust, 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 Karlsruhe to Rust may take around 1 hour 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rust, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Silver Star. This hypercoaster is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 7,899 reviews.

Continue your journey at Grimm's Enchanted Forest. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 115 travelers from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Rust, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sinsheim. Your travel time is around 1 hour 42 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This much-appreciated technology museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,268 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Wielandshöhe, 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 AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar, 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 Carls Brauhaus, a hidden gem nestled in Stuttgart. 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 Reboots. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Barbados Stuttgart provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Stuttgart’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Make Killesberg Tower your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this observation tower an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,345 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Japanisches Restaurant KICHO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Paulaner am alten Postplatz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ambiente Africa.

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!