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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nuremberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Start by visiting Germanisches Nationalmuseum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Nuremberg Castle, another must-visit landmark and well-known castle renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Nuremberg by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This photogenic convention center is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds also adds charm to your journey.

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

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Garçon, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Zephyr Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Munich. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Munich, including a museum, a food market, a public square, a palace, a surf spot and much more! Start your day at Deutsches Museum. This photogenic museum is a well-known place to see in Munich. Then, wander over to Viktualienmarkt. If instagrammable sites excite you, this food market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Marienplatz. This enchanting public square is a favorite among visitors.

Munich offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Stachus is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Nymphenburg Palace. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating palace in Munich.

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 Munich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top-rated dining spot in Munich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zum Dürnbräu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Alten Markt. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Munich.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pusser's is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Ory Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Harry's. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

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 Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Linderhof Palace, a locally renowned palace that everyone visiting Garmisch-Partenkirchen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Hohenschwangau may take around 51 min. Upon your arrival in Hohenschwangau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Hohenschwangau Castle, a captivating castle in Hohenschwangau. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Neuschwanstein Castle. This spectacular castle is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Trachtenvogl, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Munich Soup Kitchen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Munich tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Keg Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stammbar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Lux provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Heidelberg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Heidelberg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Heidelberg is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, and a scenic! Start at Heidelberg Castle, a widely recognized castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Heidelberger Marktplatz, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Old Bridge Heidelberg. This historical landmark is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Heidelberg at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Neckarwiese (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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at VINCIdue, 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 Essighaus. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Heidelberg tonight.

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.

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

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 Koblenz and Glees. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

After soaking in Heidelberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 1 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is an interesting castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Deutsches Eck, a culturally significant monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Koblenz and set your GPS to Glees. 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 27 min. Upon reaching Glees, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Maria Laach Abbey. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Yoshi by Nagaya, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing japanese and sushi menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

On day 9 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 Brühl, Königswinter, and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, 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 Brühl. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the visually striking features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brühl, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Königswinter may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Königswinter, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Schloss Drachenburg, an interesting castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Königswinter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park known for its respected features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Duisburg Zoo, a notable zoo that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hannappel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Schote, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Südrock Rock Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gentlem, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Diamond Cocktail Lounge. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne, 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cologne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Cologne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable zoo that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Cologne Cathedral, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Next, explore Old Market, yet another well-known place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum is well worthwhile the visit.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Lafleur, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Gustav, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Frankfurt is Seven Swans, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious vegan and creative menu.

Continue your lively evening at Gute Stute, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Gleis 25 ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Frankfurt and Würzburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nuremberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a symbolic, and a picturesque! Start at Römerberg, a well-known public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Iron Footbridge, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Palmengarten. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

After soaking in Frankfurt’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 28 min. When you arrive in Würzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Marienberg Fortress, a notable castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Old Main Bridge, a culturally significant historical landmark that stands out in the city.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Nuremberg by securing a reservation at Veles. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Essigbrätlein, celebrated for its delectable innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover etz, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and regional menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bierwerk is another popular option for a drink or two.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.