13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Munich, and Nuremberg

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.

Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Schildergasse, a popular street in Cologne. 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. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Experience Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, an often recommended museum in the city. Then, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic 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.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Schildergasse, the top shopping destination in Cologne. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Schildergasse has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

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 look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Heidelberg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make time for Heidelberg Castle, a widely recognized castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kornmarkt, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Heidelberger Marktplatz. This public square is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Old Bridge Heidelberg. After exploring the historical landmark, head to the curiosity-inducing Philosophers’ Way.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg's best restaurants.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Café Bar Goodfellas, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 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 still have 3 nights to spend in Munich, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Check out the captivating castle, Hohenschwangau Castle. Afterward, continue to Marienbrücke, a point of interest every traveler should visit. As you explore Munich’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Neuschwanstein Castle. This impressive castle is an essential stop.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gasthaus Isarthor, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Munich at Zum Dürnbräu, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Zum Alten Markt. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.

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

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

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Munich. You’ll stay in Munich for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t miss Altstadt today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Maximilianstraße, another street that adds to the charm of Munich.

Enjoy all that Bmw Museum has to offer. This is a locally renowned museum you should not miss. Another must-see is English Garden, a famous park in Munich.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Marienplatz.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Clou, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Munich.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Boilerman Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Koli's Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Wake up to day 9 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Karlsfeld and Dachau. With 1 night to stay in Munich, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Let Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder See set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing lake before continuing your journey. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is your next stop. This popular museum 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 Dachau Palace. This breathtaking palace is a sight to behold.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Nuremberg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nuremberg, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Nuremberg Castle leaves a lasting impression. This castle is one of the most captivating places to visit in Munich. Next, head to Schöner Brunnen, an intriguing monument, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Frauenkirche. This romantic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Nürnberg Altstadt. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Burgwächter, a popular restaurant in Nuremberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nuremberg at Alte Küch'n & Im Keller, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Nuremberg tonight.

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

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

On day 11 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nuremberg, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Enjoy all that Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) has to offer. This is a beloved public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Medieval Crime Museum, an up-and-coming museum in Nuremberg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to German Christmas Museum.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Katzentempel Nürnberg, a highly-rated dining destination in Nuremberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nuremberg this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bierwerk provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Würzburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne, where will spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Nuremberg is only getting started when you visit Würzburg Residence, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Wurzburg Cathedral. This intriguing church is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Nuremberg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Four Tubes Fountain. This heritage-rich monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Old Main Bridge is also worth visiting.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Suderman, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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