11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt traveling south to Cologne, Karlsruhe, Stuttgart, Munich, and Nuremberg

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

Experience Frankfurt Cathedral, a beloved church in the city. Then, head to Römerberg and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Frankfurt, and when you are ready for more, go to Iron Footbridge. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the worthwhile Städel Museum. Not far away, you'll also find Palmengarten. This botanical garden is a romantic highlight in Frankfurt.

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.

Cologne 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 Cologne.

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 modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Set aside time today to explore Schildergasse, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

Make a stop at Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Phantasialand. Its photogenic features will captivate you.

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.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Glees and Speyer. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Karlsruhe, where you'll spend 1 night.

Maria Laach Abbey is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This stunning monastery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Technik Museum Speyer, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned aviation museum renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Speyer Cathedral. This breathtaking church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, sein is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at TAWA YAMA FINE. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern and international cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Phono Craftbeer Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Electric Eel is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Stuttgart. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Schloßplatz leaves a lasting impression. This public square is one of the most well-known places to visit in Stuttgart. Next, head to Porsche Museum, a popular museum, known for its heritage-rich features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Wilhelma. This stunning zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Mercedes-benz Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Munich, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Munich, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Munich by securing a table at Atelier. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative french menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit EssZimmer, famous for its scrumptious modern french 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 Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Munich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Garçon. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Holy Spirit 1 Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Munich, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Hohenschwangau and Horn.

Visiting Hohenschwangau Castle is always a good idea. This interesting castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Neuschwanstein Castle. This impressive castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Gasthaus Isarthor, an iconic dining spot in Munich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zum Dürnbräu, a popular restaurant in Munich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Alten Markt, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pusser's is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Ory Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Harry's. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Munich. You have 1 night left in Munich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Altstadt, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Maximilianstraße, a street offering another perspective on the city.

Check out the globally renowned public square, Marienplatz. Afterward, continue to Viktualienmarkt, a food market every traveler should visit. As you explore Munich’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Hellabrunn Zoo. This captivating zoo is an essential stop.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Clou, a highly-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

Keep the evening going at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Boilerman Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Koli's Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Nuremberg and Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt, where will spend 1 night.

Schöner Brunnen is must-visit monument and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Nuremberg Castle, a popular castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Heidelberg Castle, a romantic castle, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative 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 Erno's Bistro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its lively atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Cosy Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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