13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne, Cochem, Trier, Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Stuttgart

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Schloss Benrath. This awe-inspiring palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hofgarten and learn what makes this standout park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. After exploring the art gallery, head to Burgplatz. This worthwhile public square is a highlight in Düsseldorf. As your day continues, stop by Rheinpromenade, known for its visually striking features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the underrated Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. Enjoy exploring this incredible boardwalk at your own pace.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Düsseldorf's bustling shopping hub, Königsallee. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Königsallee offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Coffee Fellows. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Studio 1, known for its lively atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 3 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 Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Lindt Chocolate Museum, a must-visit museum 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 Museum Ludwig, an often recommended museum. For a change of scene, check out Cologne Cathedral, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. We also recommend visiting Old Market. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bonn.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a botanical garden, a monument, a museum, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Poppelsdorf Palace. This often recommended palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Botanical Garden, Bonn, a must-see botanical garden in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Beethoven-denkmal. This locally appreciated monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Beethoven-haus Bonn, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rheinaue. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cochem and Keldung. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cochem. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a museum and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. This often recommended museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Reichsburg Cochem, which may be one of the most visually striking 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 Eltz Castle, an interesting castle in the town.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cochem. Cochem offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Cochem, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, an iconic dining spot in Cochem. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kelsey's Eck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 Trier. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Cochem covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a monument, and a church. Start your adventure at Karl-marx-house Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the noteworthy wonders of Petrusbrunnen, a must-see monument in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Liebfrauenkirche. This intriguing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Porta Nigra, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Trier. 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 Trier's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste, a top-rated dining destination in Trier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Brasserie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Monte Petris. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trier this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Chrome! Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Studio 11 Gbr, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Trier is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Philosophers’ Way, a worthwhile hiking area that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Bridge Heidelberg, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Heidelberger Marktplatz. This public square is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Trier at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Kornmarkt. After exploring the public square, head to the astonishing Heidelberg Castle.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

Continue your lively evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Bar Goodfellas ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Heidelberg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Hauptstraße is a fantastic place you can explore today in Schwetzingen. 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 Schwetzingen-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Heidelberg. Your adventure starts at Schwetzingen Palace, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Watertower Of Mannheim. This interesting monument is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Heidelberg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Mannheim Baroque Palace. This enchanting palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Luisenpark 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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Santa Lucia, 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 VINCIdue, 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 Essighaus, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Destille stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Orange Cafe Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Lenox Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Freiburg im Breisgau today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Bertoldsbrunnen. This standout public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Augustiner Museum and learn what makes this heritage-rich museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Historical Merchants' Hall. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Freiburger Münsterbauverein. This captivating church is a highlight in Freiburg im Breisgau. As your day continues, stop by Ruin Zähringer Burg, known for its history-steeped features.

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

As you explore more of Freiburg im Breisgau, 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.

Dine in style at Kucci, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Goldener Anker boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Martinsbräu. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Stuttgart. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Killesberg Tower. This underrated park is a noteworthy place to see in Freiburg im Breisgau. Continue your discovery at Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, a photogenic art gallery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Freiburg im Breisgau, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mercedes-benz Museum. This well-known museum offers a breathtaking encounter with Freiburg im Breisgau. Next, make your way to Schloßplatz to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Jubiläumssäule, a curiosity-inducing monument 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 Freiburg im Breisgau.

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

Dine in style at Tavern Waldhorn, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Le Théâtre boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Wirtshaus Garbe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Stuttgart.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Petit Coq is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Jigger & Spoon, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Schwarz Weiß Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 vibrant destinations - Rothenburg ob der Tauber. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Stuttgart. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Stuttgart. Next, head to Medieval Crime Museum, an up-and-coming museum, known for its heritage-rich 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 German Christmas Museum. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konditorei Heinemann. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

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