12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nuremberg traveling west to Munich, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Cologne, and Frankfurt

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 Nuremberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Nuremberg, including a castle, a zoo, a convention center, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Nuremberg Castle. This captivating castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Nuremberg Zoo, which may be one of the most gorgeous places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Nuremberg on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Nazi Party Rally Grounds, an increasingly popular convention center in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds.

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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Munich by booking a table at Atelier. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to EssZimmer, 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 Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Garçon after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Zephyr Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Holy Spirit 1 Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Munich for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau and Munich to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Altstadt is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Hohenschwangau, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the village.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Munich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Hohenschwangau Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout castle before continuing your journey. Neuschwanstein Castle is your next stop. This astonishing castle is one of the best-rated sights in Munich.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Marienplatz. This culturally significant public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Viktualienmarkt.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zum Dürnbräu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Alten Markt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

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!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Munich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Munich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make sure to visit Schwabing, a popular neighborhood in Munich. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Munich. Your adventure starts at Deutsches Museum, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eisbachwelle. This well-known surf spot is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Munich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to English Garden. This mesmerizing park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Nymphenburg Palace is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Clou, 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 Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, 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 Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Boilerman Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Koli's Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Stuttgart. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Schloßplatz. This notable public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mercedes-benz Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Wilhelma, one of the most captivating places to see in Stuttgart. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Porsche Museum. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this museum offers.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sonder Bar (pinte), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Bar Goodfellas, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Heidelberg. You have 1 night left in Heidelberg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Hauptstraße is a fantastic place you can explore today in Heidelberg. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Heidelberg-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Heidelberg Castle. This widely recognized castle is an enchanting place to see in Heidelberg. Continue your discovery at Heidelberger Marktplatz, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heidelberg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This well-known historical landmark offers a romantic encounter with Heidelberg. Next, make your way to Neckarwiese (heidelberg) 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.

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.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Destille, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Orange Cafe Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Lenox Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heidelberg, including an aviation museum, a monument, and a castle. Start your day at Technik Museum Speyer. This historic aviation museum is a locally renowned place to see in Heidelberg. Then, wander over to Deutsches Eck. If breathtaking sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This breathtaking castle is a favorite among visitors.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and creative 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a zoo, a park, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. This well-known zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Shaft Xii.

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

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Soul Bar Cologne, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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.

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Cologne Cathedral, a spectacular church in the city. Then, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Phantasialand. This is one of the city’s most extraordinary visually striking spots of interest.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Lafleur, 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 Erno's Bistro, a local gem known for its delightful classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gute Stute, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Frankfurt and Würzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nuremberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Frankfurt includes a public square, a monument, a castle, a historical landmark and much more! Römerberg is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Iron Footbridge, a captivating monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Marienberg Fortress, a visually striking castle, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Veles, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Essigbrätlein, known for its delicious innovative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nuremberg is etz, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and regional menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Ludwigs Bar & Cafe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bierwerk offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!