11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen traveling south to Dortmund, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Aachen, and Essen

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bremen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Bremen is always a good idea. This up-and-coming public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the masterful wonders of Bremen Roland, a must-see monument in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Bremen Cathedral. This worthwhile church offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Bremen Town Hall (ensemble) These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Stage 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 Grammons Restaurant, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary and classic french cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Dortmund and Bonn. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally renowned Westfalenpark, a mesmerizing park in Dortmund. Next, go to Dortmund Zoo.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund 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 1 hour 25 min. Upon reaching Bonn, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a notable museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Rheinaue and admire its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Frankfurt is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Frankfurt.

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.

Keep the evening going at Gute Stute, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gleis 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

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

One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Römerberg. This history-steeped public square will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stuttgart may take around 2 hours 8 min. Upon your arrival in Stuttgart, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Porsche Museum, a well-known museum in Stuttgart. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Mercedes-benz Museum. This popular museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Schloßplatz is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most respected public square in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Heidelberg. You have 1 night left in Heidelberg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Hauptstraße. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Experience Neckarwiese (heidelberg), a locally appreciated park in the city. Then, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg and soak in the ambiance of this romantic historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the top-rated Heidelberg Castle.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Heidelberg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Destille. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Orange Cafe Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Lenox Bar, another top-rated bar 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 Germany.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Speyer and Koblenz. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Speyer. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Technik Museum Speyer, a well-known aviation museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Koblenz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Speyer behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. Koblenz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Deutsches Eck is an interesting monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a culturally significant castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cologne and Brühl are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Old Market is must-visit public square and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Cologne Cathedral, an extraordinary church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, a top-rated amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Pink Pepper delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Yoshi by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese and sushi specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Le Flair, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

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

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Düsseldorf and Aachen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Burgplatz makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated public square is an awe-inspiring place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Schloss Benrath, an enchanting palace with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Düsseldorf, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aachen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Elisenbrunnen, an underrated monument known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Aachen Cathedral, an interesting church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Marktplatz Am Rathaus and uncover the details of this visually striking public square.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Aachen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Begin your culinary exploration in Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Die Wg, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gin Library provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Domkeller offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 3 places, which are Krefeld, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen, where will spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oberhausen. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Krefelder Zoo and explore the eye-catching features.

After soaking in Krefeld’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Oberhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Oberhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Oberhausen is Gasometer Oberhausen, a notable museum that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Duisburg Zoo. This interesting zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, 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 Essen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Schote, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kettner's Kamota, a local favorite known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for austrian and french contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Essen and Rheine. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bremen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your adventure in Essen is only getting started when you visit Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Shaft Xii. This curiosity-inducing museum is known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Essen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Red Dot Design Museum. This photogenic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rheine. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Naturzoo Rheine and explore the mesmerizing features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bremen. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Bremen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bremen.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a top-rated dining spot in Bremen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Jürgenshof, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bremen.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Wohnzimmer Bremen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to König Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cottons Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!