12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Frankfurt, Wiesbaden, Stuttgart, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Munich

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cologne.

Awaiting your discovery is the extraordinary Cologne Cathedral, a historic church in Cologne. Next, go to Museum Ludwig.

After visiting Cologne Cathedral and Museum Ludwig, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rheinboulevard. This visually striking boardwalk offers a unique experience. Deutz Suspension Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Malakoffturm, one of the most historic places to visit in Cologne. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic 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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Frankfurt. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 2 min. Upon reaching Frankfurt, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Palmengarten, a captivating botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.

Next, explore Iron Footbridge, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Römerberg. This enchanting public square is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Goethe House, an up-and-coming museum you won’t want to miss.

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.

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

Dine in style at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Im Herzen Afrikas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gute Stute, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gleis 25 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Wiesbaden. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Wiesbaden, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Wiesbaden. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nerobergbahn Wiesbaden, a locally appreciated heritage railway in Wiesbaden. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Kurpark. This locally appreciated park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Spielbank Wiesbaden is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped casino in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the curiosity-inducing Evangelical Market Church Wiesbaden and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Wiesbaden City Palace, a standout palace many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Scotch 'N Soda, a top-rated dining spot in Wiesbaden. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kavos Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ristorante Comeback. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Wiesbaden.

Continue your lively evening at Litfassäule, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. C/o* - Food | Bar | Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Binger Wine Bar 'the Bucket "- Wiesbaden ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Stuttgart. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Stuttgart, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Wiesbaden’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stuttgart. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 13 min. When you arrive in Stuttgart, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Porsche Museum. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Castle Solitude. This increasingly popular castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Staatsgalerie Stuttgart. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art gallery. Next, take your journey to Neues Schloss, a worthwhile palace. Conclude your sightseeing at Schloßplatz, known for its romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Stuttgart. Stuttgart offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart.

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

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Stuttgart, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the intriguing Killesberg Tower, a serene park in Stuttgart. Next, go to Wilhelma.

After visiting Killesberg Tower and Wilhelma, have a stroll along Stuttgart's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Mercedes-benz Museum. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stuttgart, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ludwigsburg. This drive usually takes around 25 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, a locally appreciated palace known for its romantic features.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riedsee. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Si-centrum Stuttgart, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mata Hari is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mocha Espresso & Wine ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Garmisch-Partenkirchen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This car ride takes around 3 hours 13 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Seilbahn Zugspitze, a locally renowned tramway known for its mesmerizing features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stuttgart and set your GPS to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 13 min. Upon reaching Garmisch-Partenkirchen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Parish Church Of St. Martin, a frequently visited church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, 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 Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fischer's Mohrenplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Wolpertinger, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bungalow 7 - Daniel Harry Mühle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Servus Musicbar, known for its inviting atmosphere. 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐂𝐚𝐟é / 𝐁𝐚𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐡 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Mittenwald. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

To truly experience Garmisch-Partenkirchen, make sure to drop by Partnachklamm. This interesting canyon is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

Mittenwald’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Garmisch-Partenkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Mittenwald welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Linderhof Palace, a locally renowned palace known for its visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Mittenwald. This car ride takes around 48 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Geigenbaumuseum, an increasingly popular museum known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Catholic Church St. Peter & Paul, a beloved church.

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 Maibaum Mittenwald and uncover the details of this heritage-rich monument.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Jan's Kneipe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hofbräustüberl Garmisch? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bräustüberl Garmisch as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Munich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Munich. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Deutsches Museum is an interesting museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pinakothek Der Moderne, a photogenic art gallery that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Hofgarten, a visually striking park. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Viktualienmarkt, an instagrammable and truly unique food market. End your sightseeing at Marienplatz, a globally renowned public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Savor the flavors at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ginkgo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Munich tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Garçon. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Zephyr Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Holy Spirit 1 Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Munich. You’ll stay in Munich for 1 night.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Schwabing, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Munich. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Whatever your travel style is, English Garden is an essential stop in Munich. This top-rated park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Bmw Museum, a historic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Bmw Welt, a notable museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the spectacular Olympiapark. Round off your day at Nymphenburg Palace, another gem in Munich with enchanting features to discover.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zum Dürnbräu beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zum Alten Markt. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Munich tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pusser's, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Ory Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Harry's. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Your itinerary for day 11 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Karlsfeld and Dachau. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Munich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Karlsfeld. Your travel time is around 35 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder See, a curiosity-inducing lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dachau. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Dachau Palace. This frequently visited palace is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Suderman, a top-rated bar in the area.

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