11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling east to Cochem, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Munich

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Don’t miss Schildergasse today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Belgisches Viertel, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Düsseldorf.

No visit to Düsseldorf is complete without Museum Kunstpalast. This increasingly popular museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf, another must-visit attraction.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cologne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Düsseldorf to Cologne may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cologne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is an interesting museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Cologne Cathedral, a breathtaking church that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Studio 1, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Cochem. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cochem, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cochem. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Reichsburg Cochem and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Gemstone Museum & Historic Grinding Shops Cochem, another highlight in Cochem. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh, an instagrammable museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cochem. Cochem 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 Cochem's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kelsey's Eck, where the evening is just getting started.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Keldung and Cochem. With 1 night to stay in Cochem, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Check out the often recommended museum, Bundesbank Bunker. Afterward, continue to Burgruine Winneburg, a castle every traveler should visit. As you explore Cochem’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Eltz Castle, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Keldung should see.

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

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 Cochem, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Heidelberg, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cochem to Heidelberg may take around 2 hours 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Heidelberg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Heidelberg Castle, an astonishing castle known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Kornmarkt, an up-and-coming public square.

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 Heidelberger Marktplatz and uncover the details of this standout public square. Make sure to also explore Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a beloved church. For your last stop, consider Kurpfälzisches Museum, a historic museum that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Bar Goodfellas ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Heidelberg, there’s no need to rush. Experience Schwetzingen and Heidelberg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Visiting Heidelberg Zoo is always a good idea. This captivating zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Heidelberg Botanical Garden, a must-see botanical garden in the town.

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 Old Bridge Heidelberg. This locally renowned historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Philosophers’ Way, where you can take in mesmerizing features.

Set your GPS to Schwetzingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Schwetzingen beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Schwetzingen Palace, a worthwhile castle in Schwetzingen. Explore its noteworthy features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Santa Lucia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try VINCIdue? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Essighaus as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Destille, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Orange Cafe Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Lenox Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 1 place, which are Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where will spend 2 nights.

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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Your travel time is around 1 hour 59 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), a curiosity-inducing public square 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 Medieval Crime Museum and admire its visually striking features.

When you’re ready, continue to German Christmas Museum, a frequently visited museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Town Hall, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Nuremberg.

One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Blade Gate.

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 Nuremberg may take around 1 hour 14 min. Upon your arrival in Nuremberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a locally renowned museum that everyone visiting Nuremberg should see. Next, head to Nuremberg Castle. This culturally significant castle is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Albrecht Dürer's House, a heritage-rich museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Schöner Brunnen is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular monument before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Munich. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Munich, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Munich may take around 2 hours 27 min. Upon your arrival in Munich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nymphenburg Palace, an interesting palace in Munich. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Frauenkirche. This interesting church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Viktualienmarkt is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking food market in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the wondrous Marienplatz and discover what makes this public square unique.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Munich. Munich 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 Munich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ginkgo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Munich.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Garçon stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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 road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Würzburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Munich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Würzburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 6 min. When you arrive in Würzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Würzburg Residence is a locally appreciated palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Wurzburg Cathedral, a picture-perfect church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Four Tubes Fountain, a symbolic monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Old Main Bridge, a culturally significant and truly unique historical landmark.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!