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 Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, a locally appreciated museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lindt Chocolate Museum, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg. 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 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Heidelberg Castle. This extraordinary castle is a visually striking place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Kornmarkt, a history-steeped public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This worthwhile public square offers a romantic encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Philosophers’ Way, a frequently visited hiking area that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

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.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Hohenschwangau. You still have 3 nights left in Munich.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hohenschwangau Castle. This popular castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Marienbrücke, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most famous places to see in Munich. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

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 delightful dinner at Gasthaus Isarthor, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zum Dürnbräu? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zum Alten Markt as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Munich.

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

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set aside time today to explore Altstadt, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Maximilianstraße, a street offering another perspective on the city.

Immerse yourself in Munich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bmw Museum. This standout museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of English Garden, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Marienplatz, a globally renowned public square.

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 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 a lovely dining experience at Le Clou, 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 Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, 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 Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Boilerman Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Munich. Koli's 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!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Munich. Begin your sightseeing with Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder See. This locally appreciated lake is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Munich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dachau Palace. This up-and-coming palace is a traveler-favorite.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trachtenvogl, 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 Munich Soup Kitchen, 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 Wirtshaus Rechthaler 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.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 1 vibrant destinations - Nuremberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nuremberg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Munich today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Nuremberg Castle. This picture-perfect castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Schöner Brunnen and learn what makes this culturally significant monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Frauenkirche. After exploring the church, head to Nürnberg Altstadt. This underrated historical landmark is a highlight in Munich.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Burgwächter, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Alte Küch'n & Im Keller beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nuremberg tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Irish Castle Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mata Hari Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nuremberg. Undecided Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Nuremberg, including a public square and a museum. Start your adventure at Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This beloved public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Medieval Crime Museum located in Nuremberg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of German Christmas Museum. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Katzentempel Nürnberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nuremberg tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, known for its lively atmosphere. Bierwerk is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Würzburg, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Nuremberg, including a palace, a church, a monument, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Würzburg Residence. This often recommended palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Wurzburg Cathedral located in Nuremberg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Four Tubes Fountain. Its noteworthy features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Old Main Bridge. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this historical landmark.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Limani, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Suderman, a prime location for a drink.

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