13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Munich, Füssen, Freiburg im Breisgau, Trier, Aachen, Cologne, and Bernkastel-Kues and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Karlsruhe, Sinsheim, and Ulm. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several an idyllic, an awe-inspiring, and an eye-catching. Whether you decide to explore Karlsruhe on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this idyllic zoo before continuing your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karlsruhe and set your GPS to Sinsheim. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Sinsheim, 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 Technikmuseum Sinsheim. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the aviation museum before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ulm. This car ride takes around 2 hours 1 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Ulm Minster, a captivating church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Atelier in Munich by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Atelier offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore EssZimmer, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and 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 Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Garçon stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Munich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Füssen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Munich, featuring a charming, a stunning, a visually striking, a historic, a majestic, and a peaceful. Start at Marienplatz, an iconic public square in the city. Then, head to Viktualienmarkt and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking food market.

There are many interesting places to see in Munich and when you are ready for more, go to English Garden. This is one of the city’s most impressive spots. After exploring the park, visit the top-rated Olympiapark. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Bmw Welt, a captivating museum in the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Bayrish Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Füssen.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hohenschwangau and Stuttgart. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Füssen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Hohenschwangau may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Hohenschwangau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Hohenschwangau Castle, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Neuschwanstein Castle, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings. Next, explore Marienbrücke, yet another often recommended place to see in the area.

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 Stuttgart may take around 2 hours 26 min. Upon your arrival in Stuttgart, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloßplatz, a well-known public square known for its romantic features.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Eichhalde, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible italian and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Colombi Restaurant Zirbelstube is one of the best restaurants for classic french and mediterranean cuisine in Freiburg im Breisgau. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Wolfshöhle. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Am Funkeneck, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Beat Bar Butzemann, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Freiburg im Breisgau. You have 1 night left in Freiburg im Breisgau. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Freiburg im Breisgau, including a park, a church, a public square, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Seepark Betzenhausen. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Freiburger Münsterbauverein located in Freiburg im Breisgau for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Stadtgarten Freiburg. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Bertoldsbrunnen. This public square has a standout appeal. For a change of pace, head to Martin's Gate. As one of the most locally appreciated attractions in Freiburg im Breisgau, this monument is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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 Freiburg im Breisgau's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kucci, a top-rated dining destination in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Goldener Anker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Martinsbräu. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Freiburg im Breisgau this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Saarbrücken, Völklingen, and Orscholz. 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 2 nights.

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

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

Set your GPS to Völklingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Völklingen beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Saarbrücken Castle, a frequently visited castle that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking in Saarbrücken’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Völklingen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Völklingen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Völklingen Ironworks is an up-and-coming museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Orscholz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Orscholz beckons with new experiences!

Head to Treetop Walk Saarschleife, a beloved canopy walk in Orscholz. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Trier. Trier 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 Trier's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Trier by reserving a table at Bagatelle. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french contemporary and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to BECKER'S, renowned for its delectable creative and classic dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trier.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Chrome!, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Studio 11 Gbr is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Simplicissimus also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 9 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 Aachen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Aachen, including a church and a monument. Start your day at Aachen Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is an interesting place to see in Aachen. Then, wander over to Elisenbrunnen. If eye-catching sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Aachen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a well-known park that everyone visiting Duisburg should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Duisburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a zoo, a church, a public square, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This popular zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cologne Cathedral, which may be one of the most historic 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 Old Market, one of the city’s most well-known public square. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 3 vibrant destinations - Koblenz, Keldung, and Trier. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Koblenz’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

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 Cologne to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a notable castle that everyone visiting Koblenz should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Deutsches Eck. This picture-perfect monument is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

Keldung’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Koblenz behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Keldung welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Eltz Castle, a well-known castle in Keldung. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Keldung and set your GPS to Trier. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Trier, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Porta Nigra is an interesting monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Savor the flavors at Burgruine Landshut, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Speyer and Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying 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 Heidelberg. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Speyer Cathedral, a captivating church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Technik Museum Speyer and admire its historic features.

When you’ve had your share of Speyer, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Heidelberg. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Begin your journey at Heidelberg Castle and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg, another highlight in the town.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Karlsruhe by securing a table at Bistro Margarete. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit sein, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern and international cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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