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

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 Cochem. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cochem, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming town of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Bundesbank Bunker, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Reichsburg Cochem. This well-known castle is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. This standout museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cochem. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cochem. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a top-rated dining destination in Cochem.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kelsey's Eck stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cochem, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Cochem for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Keldung, Wittlich, Graach a der Mosel, and Traben-Trarbach to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today's adventure in Cochem promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Eltz Castle. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the village. Next, head over to Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik, one of the village’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Brückentor (traben-trarbach). This historic monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cochem. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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

Heidelberg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a church, a public square, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Old Bridge Heidelberg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a romantic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Kornmarkt, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the astonishing Heidelberg Castle.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Destille, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Orange Cafe Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Lenox Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Heidelberg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This locally appreciated public square is a romantic place to see in Heidelberg. Continue your discovery at Medieval Crime Museum, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heidelberg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to German Christmas Museum. This increasingly popular museum offers a history-steeped encounter with Heidelberg. Next, make your way to Town Hall to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Heidelberg.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's best restaurants.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Castle Garden, a beloved park in the town. Then, head to Nördlinger Stadtmauer and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and when you are ready for more, go to Saint George Church. This is one of the town’s most increasingly popular eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the locally appreciated Kirchturm Daniel. Not far away, you'll also find Noerdlingen Gate. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Dinkelsbühl Altstadt, an increasingly popular historical landmark in the town.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's best restaurants.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Munich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rothenburg ob der Tauber today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Bmw Museum. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hofgarten and learn what makes this remarkable park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Frauenkirche. After exploring the church, head to Viktualienmarkt. This famous food market is a highlight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. As your day continues, stop by Marienplatz, known for its grand features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Munich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining spot in Munich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ginkgo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Munich.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Munich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 1 vibrant destinations - Bamberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bamberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Neue Residenz Bamberg. This increasingly popular palace is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Bamberg Cathedral, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Bamberg Old Town, one of the most beloved places to see in Munich. This historical landmark is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Sammlung Ludwig Bamberg Im Alten Rathaus I Museen Der Stadt Bamberg. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Rathaus, a top-rated city hall that adds another dimension to your day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bamberg. Bamberg 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 in Bamberg. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

On day 11 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 Würzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the frequently visited Würzburg Residence, an enchanting palace in Bamberg. Next, go to Wurzburg Cathedral.

After visiting Würzburg Residence and Wurzburg Cathedral, have a stroll along Bamberg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Four Tubes Fountain. This standout monument offers a unique experience. Old Main Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Marienberg Fortress, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Bamberg.

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.

As you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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