13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt traveling south to Cologne, Mainz, Würzburg, Munich, and Heidelberg

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

Today’s agenda in Frankfurt includes a public square, a monument, a zoo, an opera house, a botanical garden and much more! Römerberg is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Iron Footbridge, a notable monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zoo Frankfurt, a history-steeped zoo, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Frankfurt. If you’re looking for more, Alte Oper is also a notable attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Palmengarten, a captivating gem to see in the city.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night 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 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cologne and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Mainz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a church and a museum. Start your day at Cologne Cathedral. This breathtaking church is a famous place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Lindt Chocolate Museum. If visually striking sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.

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

Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, an astonishing amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mainz, 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 Mainz. 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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Mainz by securing a table at Geberts Weinstuben. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional classic and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit FAVORITE restaurant, famous for its scrumptious modern french and creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

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

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Mainz and Speyer, 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 Würzburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Mainz. Begin your sightseeing with Mainz Cathedral. This intriguing church is one of the top attractions in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mainz and set your GPS to Speyer. 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 1 hour 12 min. Upon reaching Speyer, 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 Technik Museum Speyer. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the aviation museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Speyer Cathedral. This captivating church is a traveler-favorite 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 Würzburg. Würzburg 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 Würzburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Würzburg by reserving a table at KUNO 1408. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Schönborn offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Würzburg.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hasenstall stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Loma offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 5 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 Würzburg and Nuremberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 5 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Würzburg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark and a castle. Begin your adventure at Old Main Bridge. This is an interesting historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Marienberg Fortress, a popular castle in Würzburg.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Würzburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nuremberg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Nuremberg Castle, an interesting castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Schöner Brunnen, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Munich by securing a reservation at Atelier. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative french cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try EssZimmer, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Garçon, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zephyr Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Holy Spirit 1 Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Munich has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Munich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Altstadt, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Munich. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today’s agenda in Munich includes a public square, a food market, and a museum. Marienplatz is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Viktualienmarkt, a spectacular food market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Deutsches Museum, an instagrammable museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in 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.

Make sure to visit Schwabing, a popular neighborhood in Munich. 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.

Today’s itinerary in Munich covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a public square, a surf spot, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Hellabrunn Zoo. This well-known zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Odeonsplatz, a must-see public square 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 Eisbachwelle. This well-known surf spot offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to English Garden, where you can take in its romantic features.

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 Munich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Trachtenvogl, a top-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Munich Soup Kitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Munich and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 9 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 will return to Munich for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today's adventure in Hohenschwangau promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Set your GPS to Hohenschwangau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hohenschwangau beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Hohenschwangau Castle, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Hohenschwangau should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Marienbrücke. Don’t miss out on Neuschwanstein Castle, a romantic castle, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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 Andechser am Dom, 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 Hotel Europa, 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 Andy's Krablergarten, 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 Tabacco, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Havana Club. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Greet day 11 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Heidelberg 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 Rust and Sinsheim.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Rust today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Heidelberg and set your GPS to Rust. 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 1 hour 45 min. Upon reaching Rust, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Silver Star, a locally appreciated amusement park that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Grimm's Enchanted Forest, an eye-catching park that stands out in the village.

After soaking in Rust’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sinsheim. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 42 min. When you arrive in Sinsheim, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Technikmuseum Sinsheim, a locally renowned aviation museum that everyone visiting Sinsheim should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

As you explore more of Heidelberg, 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.

Savor the flavors at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, VINCIdue beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Essighaus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.

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.

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