11-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe traveling east to Stuttgart, Ulm, Munich, Nuremberg, and Frankfurt

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Karlsruhe and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 2 nights 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Karlsruhe. 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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Kleinen Ketterer offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Karlsruhe.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Phono Craftbeer Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Jean-claude Cocktail Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Karlsruhe has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Karlsruhe by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe one of your first sightseeing stops in Karlsruhe. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,255 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Karlsruhe Botanical Garden is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,232 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,946 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to State Museum Of Baden. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,117 previous visitors.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Karlsruhe on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Karlsruhe by reserving a table at Bistro Margarete. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. For a different taste experience, head to sein, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite known for its delightful modern, and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern, and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Carlos Cocktailbar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Ubu offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Sinsheim, Schwetzingen, and Pforzheim, 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 Stuttgart. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Karlsruhe, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sinsheim. Your travel time is around 45 min.

Kick off the day at Technikmuseum Sinsheim, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,268 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Schwetzingen, 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 Sinsheim to Schwetzingen may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Schwetzingen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Schwetzingen Palace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,054 reviews.

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 Stuttgart. Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Stuttgart by booking a table at Der Zauberlehrling, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Stuttgart, Speisemeisterei shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative, and innovative 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, Ritzi Gourmet is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative french, and modern cuisine in Stuttgart. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Petit Coq, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Jigger & Spoon is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Schloßplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,914 reviews.

Continue your journey at Porsche Museum. This automobile museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 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 33,531 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 43,234 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ulm, 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 Ulm. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Ulm by reserving a table at Treibgut. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary, and international cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Seestern, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore bi:braud, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary 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 Ulm.

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

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

On day 5 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 Füssen, Hohenschwangau, and Garmisch-Partenkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ulm, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Füssen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau is a great place to start. This spa is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,307 visitors.

Set your GPS to Hohenschwangau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hohenschwangau beckons with new experiences!

Make Marienbrücke one of your first sightseeing stops in Hohenschwangau. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,539 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Neuschwanstein Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,520 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Hohenschwangau Castle. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,919 visitors.

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 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Munich by booking a table at Atelier, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative french menu. For a different flavor experience, head to EssZimmer, renowned for its delectable modern french, and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a local gem known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Munich. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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 to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Munich. You have 1 night left in Munich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Viktualienmarkt. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,600 visitors.

Next, make your way to Marienplatz. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 119,529 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Bmw Museum. Hosting 250,000 visitors every year, Bmw Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Munich. This automobile museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,183 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Bmw Welt. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,637 travelers. Around 3,000,000 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Olympiapark. This olympic park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 69,929 travelers.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gasthaus Isarthor, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Dürnbräu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zum Alten Markt is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Munich.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pusser's, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Ory Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Harry's, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 vibrant destinations - Munich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nuremberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Stachus, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,328 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Nymphenburg Palace. This summer residence has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,669 travelers.

Deutsches Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned national museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 34,868 travelers and attracting 1,250,000 annual visitors, 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 Eisbachwelle. This well-loved point of interest boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 18,432 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, English Garden awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,807 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 Nuremberg. Nuremberg 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 explore more of Nuremberg, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Veles in Nuremberg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Veles delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Essigbrätlein, acclaimed for its delectable innovative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at etz, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative, and regional cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Irish Castle Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Mata Hari Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Undecided Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nuremberg, and Würzburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Schöner Brunnen. This extraordinary well has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,679 visitors.

Next, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,212 reviews.

After soaking in Nuremberg’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 1 hour 30 min. When you arrive in Würzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Würzburg Residence. This much-appreciated schloss is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,751 reviews. Each year, 350,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Old Main Bridge. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,624 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Marienberg Fortress. This fortress has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,044 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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Lafleur, recognized for its delicious modern french, 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 Erno's Bistro, a local favorite known for its delightful classic french, and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic french, and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Gute Stute, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Frankfurt. Gleis 25 is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Frankfurt for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Palmengarten. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 visitors.

Alte Oper is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This concert hall has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,602 travelers.

Frankfurt is also the home of Römerberg. Around 24,968 people have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Iron Footbridge. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 23,403 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Frankfurt is also your chance to admire Zoo Frankfurt. This must-visit zoo enjoys an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,905 reviews.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Lohninger, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Apfelwein Dax, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ariston Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Jambo Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Cosy Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Mannheim, and Heidelberg, 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 Karlsruhe. 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 Mannheim. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Luisenpark. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,730 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Watertower Of Mannheim. This water tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,295 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Heidelberg. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Heidelberg Castle is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Old Bridge Heidelberg. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,612 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Karlsruhe, 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 Karlsruhe's best restaurants.

Make sure to book a table at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Karlsruhe at L'Osteria Karlsruhe, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Café Palaver. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Karlsruhe tonight.

Keep the evening going at Santo’s Cocktailbar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Minibar Karlsruhe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 Karlsruhe 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.

Journey into the unknown at Marktplatz, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,876 reviews.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider bratar Burger Grill Bar | Karlsruhe, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!