13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling west to Karlsruhe, Koblenz, Essen, Dortmund, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Heidelberg

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

Today’s agenda in Stuttgart includes an observation deck, a museum, and a zoo. Stuttgart Tv Tower is must-visit observation deck and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Mercedes-benz Museum, a notable museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Wilhelma, 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 Stuttgart. If you’re looking for more, Porsche Museum is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Stuttgart by booking a table at Der Zauberlehrling, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Stuttgart, Speisemeisterei shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and innovative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Ritzi Gourmet is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative french and modern cuisine in Stuttgart. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Si-centrum Stuttgart, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Mata Hari. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mocha Espresso & Wine, another top-rated place in the area.

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 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pforzheim, Sinsheim, and Schwetzingen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Karlsruhe, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pforzheim. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Wildpark Pforzheim, a worthwhile wildlife reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Gasometer Pforzheim and admire its photogenic features.

Sinsheim’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pforzheim behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Sinsheim welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Technikmuseum Sinsheim, a locally renowned aviation museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Schwetzingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Schwetzingen beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Schwetzingen Palace, a worthwhile castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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 Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe's best restaurants.

Discover the culinary delights of Karlsruhe by securing a reservation at Bistro Margarete. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of regional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try sein, renowned for its delicious modern 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 TAWA YAMA FINE, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Phono Craftbeer Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Electric Eel, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Speyer, Keldung, and Koblenz, 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 Koblenz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Karlsruhe, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Speyer may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Speyer, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Technik Museum Speyer, a well-known aviation museum known for its breathtaking features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Speyer, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Keldung. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Eltz Castle. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Keldung, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Koblenz. Your travel time is around 48 min.

Deutsches Eck is a locally renowned monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a culturally significant castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Koblenz's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Keep the evening going at Spökes, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dubai Shisha Lounge, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Excalibur - The Rock Cafe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 8 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 Dortmund and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Dortmund is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Westfalenpark. Just a short distance away is Dortmund Zoo, an awe-inspiring zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

When you’ve had your share of Dortmund, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park in Duisburg. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Duisburg Zoo. This notable zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a respected, a culturally significant, a symbolic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a romantic in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Old Market, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum is a traveler-favorite.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Gute Stute after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Gleis 25 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Frankfurt has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Frankfurt by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s route brings a romantic, a beautiful, an enchanting, a photogenic, a historic, and a majestic. The first attraction of today is Palmengarten. This locally renowned botanical garden is a mesmerizing place to see in Frankfurt. Continue your discovery at Alte Oper, an awe-inspiring opera house with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Frankfurt, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Römerberg. This interesting public square offers a majestic encounter with Frankfurt. Iron Footbridge is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Frankfurt.

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 explore more of Frankfurt, 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 book a table at Restaurant Lohninger, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Apfelwein Dax, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Ariston Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Frankfurt tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Barkello Café Bar Lounge, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Jambo Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Cosy Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a picturesque, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a respected, and a majestic. Whether you decide to explore Heidelberg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Neckarwiese (heidelberg) is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Old Bridge Heidelberg is your next stop. This well-known historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Heidelberg.

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 Heidelberger Marktplatz. This romantic public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Heidelberg Castle.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Stuttgart's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Wielandshöhe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Carls Brauhaus is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stuttgart.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Reboots, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Barbados Stuttgart provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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