11-Day Germany Road Trip from Bremen traveling south to Dortmund, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Cologne, Aachen, and Essen

Say hello to Bremen! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bremen for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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

Find your way to your hotel in Bremen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Savor the flavors at Hotel Robben, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rosso Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Red Rock is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bremen. 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bremen. This college town is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,746 visitors.

Bremen Roland is another popular attraction you could visit today. This roland statue has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,405 visitors.

Town Musicians Of Bremen is also highly recommended by travelers. This literary work has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,109 visitors.

Bremen Cathedral is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,226 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Rhododendron-park Bremen. This botanical garden has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,244 travelers.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary, and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vater&sohn, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Loka Lounge Dortmund, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Central Bar & More Dortmund likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 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 Dortmund. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to German Football Museum. This sports museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dortmund, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,503 visitors.

Westfalenpark is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,451 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,572 reviews.

Dortmund Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 15,732 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.

As you explore more of Frankfurt, 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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gute Stute stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gleis 25 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Römerberg, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,968 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Iron Footbridge. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,403 travelers.

Zoo Frankfurt is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,905 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Alte Oper. This well-loved concert hall boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 13,602 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Palmengarten awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a botanical garden, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,461 previous visitors.

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 Heidelberg. Heidelberg 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sonder Bar (pinte), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Bar Goodfellas, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Heidelberg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Heidelberg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,663 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 ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,790 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Heidelberg Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 visitors.

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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider VINCIdue, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essighaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Speyer, and Koblenz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Heidelberg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Speyer. Your travel time is around 33 min.

Drop by the renowned Technik Museum Speyer. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,541 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Deutsches Eck, a remarkable headland where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 travelers.

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 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french, and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern, and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Old Market is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 visitors.

Cologne Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 5,000,000 people visit this top attraction every year. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors.

Cologne Zoological Garden is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Cologne, 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 Cologne below.

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.

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.

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.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen, 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 Aachen. You’ll stay here 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 Heisterbacherrott. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Siebengebirge is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,647 visitors.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heisterbacherrott behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Schloss Drachenburg. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Aachen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at La Bécasse in Aachen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, La Bécasse delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious classic french cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kanpai Sushi? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Die Wg, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Gin Library offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aachen. Domkeller is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Solingen, Sterkrade, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Solingen. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

Make Burg Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Solingen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,193 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking in Solingen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sterkrade. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 58 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Gasometer Oberhausen. This gas holder is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sterkrade, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,693 visitors.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and classic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Südrock Rock Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gentlem offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 10 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 Werden, Essen, and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,211 visitors.

When you’re finished at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

Werden welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hügel Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,664 visitors.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a highly-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Jürgenshof, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Wohnzimmer Bremen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. König Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cottons Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bremen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Shepherd With Pigs. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 441 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Paulaner's a der Schlachte, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bolero Schlachte? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bremen. 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!