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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nuremberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Munich. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Germanisches Nationalmuseum. This extraordinary national museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,233 visitors. Each year, around 405,799 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This top attraction is a castle with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,212 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This building complex is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,503 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 15,731 travelers.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative, and modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Atelier, known for its delicious creative french cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Munich is EssZimmer, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french, and creative menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Garçon offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Zephyr Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Kick off the day at Deutsches Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,250,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This national museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 34,868 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Viktualienmarkt. Viktualienmarkt is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,600 reviews.

Marienplatz is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 119,529 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Stachus. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,328 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Nymphenburg Palace, a famous summer residence in Munich. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 31,669 travelers.

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

Dine in style at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Dürnbräu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zum Alten Markt. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Munich.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pusser's, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Ory Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Harry's 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 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Munich, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Garmisch-Partenkirchen may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Linderhof Palace. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,178 visitors.

Hohenschwangau’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 51 min. Hohenschwangau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hohenschwangau Castle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,919 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Neuschwanstein Castle. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,520 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hohenschwangau, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Füssen may take around 4 min. Upon your arrival in Füssen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is St. Coloman. Previous visitors have rated this landmark an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 861 reviews.

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

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.

Dine in style at Trachtenvogl, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Munich Soup Kitchen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Munich.

Keep the evening going at The Keg Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Stammbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Lux, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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.

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 Heidelberger Marktplatz. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,790 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Old Bridge Heidelberg. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,612 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,059 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Heidelberg has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, VINCIdue is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Essighaus. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

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.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Koblenz, and Glees, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Koblenz, 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 Heidelberg to Koblenz may take around 2 hours 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Ehrenbreitstein Fortress one of your first sightseeing stops in Koblenz. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Deutsches Eck is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This headland is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 reviews.

Set your GPS to Glees and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Glees beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Maria Laach Abbey. This extraordinary monastery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,805 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering japanese, and sushi menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Brühl, Königswinter, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Phantasialand. Over 1,750,000 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Schloss Drachenburg. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Essen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern, and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Essen, Schote shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Südrock Rock Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gentlem provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cologne. This car ride takes around 53 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

When you’re finished at Cologne Zoological Garden, head to Cologne Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. Every year, approximately 5,000,000 travelers come here to experience the catholic cathedral for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Old Market. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 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 Frankfurt. Frankfurt 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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Lafleur in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Lafleur offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french, and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Gustav, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Seven Swans, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional vegan, and creative menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Gute Stute, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt). This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gleis 25, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Frankfurt, and Würzburg. 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Römerberg. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,968 visitors.

Next, make your way to Iron Footbridge. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,403 reviews.

While in Frankfurt, we also recommend a visit to Palmengarten. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,461 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Frankfurt, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Würzburg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 28 min.

Make Marienberg Fortress your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,044 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Old Main Bridge. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,624 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg. 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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bierwerk, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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