10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling west to Frankfurt, Dortmund, Cologne, and Heidelberg

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.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Stuttgart Tv Tower. This captivating observation deck is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mercedes-benz Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Wilhelma, one of the most interesting places to see in Stuttgart. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Porsche Museum. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this museum offers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative 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 Ritzi Gourmet, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Si-centrum Stuttgart, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Mata Hari, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mocha Espresso & Wine provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Stuttgart today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This eye-catching aviation museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Schwetzingen Palace and learn what makes this enchanting castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Luisenpark. After exploring the park, head to Watertower Of Mannheim. This interesting monument is a highlight in Stuttgart. As your day continues, stop by Paradeplatz, known for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Frankfurt, Lafleur shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Erno's Bistro is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gute Stute offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gleis 25 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

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 Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Frankfurt. Your adventure starts at Römerberg, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Iron Footbridge. This captivating monument is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Frankfurt's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zoo Frankfurt. This picture-perfect zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Alte Oper is also worth visiting, along with Palmengarten. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vater&sohn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dortmund, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a captivating museum in the city. Then, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable park.

There are many interesting places to see in Dortmund, and when you are ready for more, go to Duisburg Zoo. This is one of the city’s most notable eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the curiosity-inducing Tiger & Turtle.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This visually striking museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinaue and learn what makes this serene park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Schloss Drachenburg. After exploring the castle, head to Siebengebirge. This often recommended mountain range is a highlight in Cologne. As your day continues, stop by Burg Castle, known for its stunning features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brühl and Cologne.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including an amusement park, a museum, a church, a zoo and much more! Start your day with a visit to Phantasialand. This famous amusement park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Cologne Cathedral, an extraordinary church in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cologne Zoological Garden.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This culturally significant castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Deutsches Eck, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Technik Museum Speyer, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its gorgeous features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 - Heidelberg. 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This underrated park is an eye-catching place to see in Heidelberg. Continue your discovery at Old Bridge Heidelberg, a romantic historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heidelberg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This often recommended public square offers a visually striking encounter with Heidelberg. Next, make your way to German Pharmacy Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Heidelberg Castle, a spectacular castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Heidelberg.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stuttgart. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Savor the flavors at Wielandshöhe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Carls Brauhaus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Stuttgart tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Reboots, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Barbados Stuttgart, another top-rated place in the area.

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