11-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe to Stuttgart, Munich, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Heidelberg

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Karlsruhe and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Karlsruhe. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Karlsruhe by securing a reservation at Bistro Margarete. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of regional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try sein, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to TAWA YAMA FINE, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Phono Craftbeer Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Carlos CocktailBar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 2 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 Karlsruhe. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Stuttgart and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stuttgart beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,720 reviews.

Next up is State Museum of Natural History, Karlsruhe. This natural history museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,169 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe. This research institute has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,703 reviews.

Günther-Klotz-Anlage is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,105 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Speisemeisterei, renowned for its delicious creative and innovative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Ritzi Gourmet, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le petit Coq. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jigger & Spoon offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Schwarz Weiß Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Stuttgart. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Munich, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stuttgart to Munich may take around 2 hours 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Munich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Schloßplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,355 reviews.

Continue your journey at Porsche Museum. This automobile museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,816 travelers from near and far.

Stuttgart is also the home of Wilhelma. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 33,034 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Mercedes-Benz Museum. A total of 876,109 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 42,800 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Munich.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Atelier, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, EssZimmer is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Munich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Zephyr Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pusser's, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Boilerman Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Munich has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Munich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Olympiapark. This olympic park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Munich, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 68,103 visitors.

BMW Welt is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,941 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 3,000,000 people visit this music venue every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to BMW Museum. Visitors have rated this automobile museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,349 reviews. BMW Museum receives around 250,000 visitors every year.

Hellabrunn Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a geozoo rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 35,258 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Andechser am Dom, 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 Augustiner-Keller, 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 Nur Einmal Leben, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Keg Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Havana Club, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Nymphenburg Palace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this summer residence an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 31,394 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Deutsches Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 34,643 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this national museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 1,250,000 annual visitors.

Viktualienmarkt is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,191 visitors.

When you’re finished at Viktualienmarkt, the perfect next stop is Marienplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,139 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Stachus. This square is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,791 reviews.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Negroni Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ratskeller München, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Spatenhaus at the opera. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Munich this 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 in Germany.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Munich, 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 Nuremberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Munich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nuremberg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Odeonsplatz, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,073 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Munich Residence is a recommended place to visit. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,567 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Munich is Hofgarten. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,555 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Munich offers an experience you will remember.

Eisbachwelle is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Munich. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,940 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on English Garden. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,616 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nuremberg. Nuremberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Nuremberg's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Veles in Nuremberg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Veles offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Essigbrätlein, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing innovative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at etz, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and regional menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Irish Castle Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, bierwerk offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Nuremberg and Würzburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Würzburg. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schöner Brunnen, a remarkable well where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,461 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Nuremberg Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,670 travelers.

Set your GPS to Würzburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Würzburg beckons with new experiences!

Make Würzburg Residence your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this schloss an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,366 reviews. More than 350,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Old Main Bridge. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,308 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Marienberg Fortress is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,851 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gleis 25 provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Frankfurt. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palmengarten. This extraordinary botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,050 visitors.

Next, make your way to Alte Oper. This top attraction is a concert hall with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,371 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Römerberg. This square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Iron Footbridge. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,044 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,563 travelers.

Your discoveries in Frankfurt do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Frankfurt on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Dine in style at Chicago Meatpackers, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Gemalten Haus boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

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

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 2 vibrant destinations - Speyer and Worms. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Speyer’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Worms behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Speyer welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Technic Museum Speyer one of your first sightseeing stops in Speyer. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,991 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Speyer Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,020 reviews.

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

Drop by the renowned Tiergarten Worms. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,734 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Sonder Bar (Pinte) offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Destille is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Orange Cafe Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Rust and Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlsruhe, where you will stay 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 Rust. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Silver Star. This hypercoaster is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Rust, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 7,829 visitors.

Europa-Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 164,772 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 5,700,000 people visit this amusement park every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heidelberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rust may take around 1 hour 45 min. Upon your arrival in Rust, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Scheffelterrasse is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,077 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Badisch Brauhaus, a top-rated dining spot in Karlsruhe. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Palaver. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Karlsruhe.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Der KofferRaum - Cocktailbar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Santo’s Cocktailbar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Head back to your accommodation in Karlsruhe and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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 Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Karlsruhe’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Germany, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Germany home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gasthaus Gutenberg, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!