14-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Hamburg, Berlin, Chemnitz, Munich, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Stuttgart

On day 2 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’s agenda in Cologne includes a park, a zoo, a church, a museum and much more! Rheinpark is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Cologne Zoological Garden, a captivating zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, an instagrammable church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cologne. If you’re looking for more, Lindt Chocolate Museum is also a locally renowned 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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 3 vibrant destinations - Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Oberhausen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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 Essen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gelsenkirchen, 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 Essen to Gelsenkirchen may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gelsenkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Nordstern Park, an often recommended park that everyone visiting Gelsenkirchen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gelsenkirchen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Oberhausen. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Gasometer Oberhausen, a well-known museum that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hamburg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 4 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 Hamburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berlin, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hamburg, featuring an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a historic, a grand, a romantic, and a serene. Start at Elbe Tunnel, a popular historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Elbe Philharmonic Hall and soak in the ambiance of this romantic concert hall.

There are many interesting places to see in Hamburg and when you are ready for more, go to Miniatur Wunderland. This is one of the city’s most famous spots. After exploring the museum, visit the popular Planten Un Blomen. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the well-known Stadtpark, a well-known park in the city.

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

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

Start your culinary exploration in Berlin by securing a reservation at Rutz. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, celebrated for its delectable 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 FACIL, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Monkey Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Saint Jean offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Berlin. Green Door 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!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with a photogenic, a mesmerizing, a heritage-rich, a majestic, and a culturally significant. Start at the popular Mauerpark, a picture-perfect park in Berlin. Next, go to Berlin Wall Memorial.

After visiting Mauerpark and Berlin Wall Memorial, take time to explore Berlin's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Berlin Cathedral. This awe-inspiring church offers a unique experience. Alexanderplatz is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to East Side Gallery, one of the most historic places to visit in Berlin.

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

Make sure to book a table at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a popular restaurant in Berlin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berlin at Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, 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 Berlin TV Tower. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Berlin tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sharlie Cheen Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Curtain Club provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 2 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with a photogenic, a heritage-rich, a grand, a noteworthy, and an enchanting in the charming city of Berlin. Your adventure starts at Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Potsdamer Platz. This impressive public square is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Berlin's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Topography Of Terror. This heritage-rich museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Pergamon Museum 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Marjellchen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Berlin.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Booze Bar Berlin, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Victoria Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Berlin is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, an idyllic, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a respected, a remarkable, and a culturally significant! Start at Großer Tiergarten, a popular park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Siegessäule, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Berlin Zoological Garden. This zoo is one of the city’s most widely recognized spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Berlin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Charlottenburg Palace.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Curry 61, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Gasthaus Krombach offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, SOY is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Berlin.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Franken Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mikkeller Berlin offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Berlin. Limonadier Cocktailbar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dresden, 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 Chemnitz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Berlin and set your GPS to Dresden. 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 2 hours 12 min. Upon reaching Dresden, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Brühl's Terrace, a locally renowned public square in Dresden. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Church Of Our Lady. This well-known church is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Semperoper is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic opera house in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the well-known Zwinger and discover what makes this palace unique.

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 Chemnitz. Chemnitz 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 explore more of Chemnitz, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Chemnitz by booking a table at Villa Esche. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of international and contemporary cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Miramar Chemnitz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Munich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Munich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Marienplatz. This history-steeped public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Viktualienmarkt, a must-visit food market 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 Deutsches Museum, a locally renowned museum. For a change of scene, check out Stachus, known for its breathtaking features.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fischer's Mohrenplatz, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Wolpertinger offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bungalow 7 - Daniel Harry Mühle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Servus Musicbar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐂𝐚𝐟é / 𝐁𝐚𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐡 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Say good night to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and look forward to another great 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 2 vibrant destinations - Hohenschwangau and Ulm. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stuttgart. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, 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 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Hohenschwangau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Neuschwanstein Castle, a widely recognized castle known for its enchanting features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Marienbrücke, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Hohenschwangau Castle and uncover the details of this enchanting castle.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hohenschwangau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ulm. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ulm Minster, a well-known church known for its breathtaking features.

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 Stuttgart. Stuttgart 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 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Speisemeisterei, renowned for its delicious creative and innovative 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 Ritzi Gourmet, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Petit Coq offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Jigger & Spoon is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Schwarz Weiß Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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