14-Day Germany Road Trip from Frankfurt traveling west to Heidelberg and Cologne

Welcome to Frankfurt, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Frankfurt's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Frankfurt is a beautiful region with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Frankfurt. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the region.

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.

Gustav is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 2-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Frankfurt, Lafleur. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern french and creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Frankfurt you shouldn’t miss is Erno's Bistro. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s classic french and modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

O'reilly's Irish pubs is one of the best bars in Frankfurt and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,367 customers.

You may also want to check out Oosten. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Oosten is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,068 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main. Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,956 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Raise a toast to the start of your 14-day road trip in Germany!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Frankfurt for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

You can learn more about Frankfurt today by going on a tour. Frankfurt offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Frankfurt.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Klosterhof, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,908 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Gaststätte Atschel during your stay in Frankfurt. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,694 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Ebbelwoi Unser, a renowned dining destination in Frankfurt. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,355 satisfied guests.

After dinner, stop by one of the best bars in Frankfurt. Maincafé often offers travelers and locals alike a great time. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,409 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at SenSaSion Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 400 customers.

Gleis 25 is another top-rated bar in the region. This place enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 503 customers.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Frankfurt and Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 5 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Römerberg. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,391 reviews.

Next up is Frankfurt Cathedral. This church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,831 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Iron Footbridge. This point of interest has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,044 reviews.

Nizza is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,190 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Städel Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,294 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Frankfurt, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Frankfurt, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Heidelberg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the region.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Weinstube Schnitzelbank, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,743 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Heid's Grill & Restaurant while in Heidelberg. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, treasured by 3,269 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg, a favorite in Heidelberg. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,413 discerning guests.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the region, go to Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,422 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to HANS IM GLÜCK - HEIDELBERG Heiliggeistkirche. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,229 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Sahara Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,850 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Heidelberg. You’ll stay in Heidelberg for 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Heidelberg has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Heidelberg offers and add your favorites to your Germany travel package below.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit The Dubliner Hotel and Irish Pub. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Heidelberg has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 1,712 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Heidelberg, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,495 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Hemingway's Heidelberg. This highly regarded restaurant in Heidelberg has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 1,095 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the region. Cocktailcafé Regie is a popular option with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,051 customers.

Another top option is Das Bootshaus - Restaurant Heidelberg. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 888 customers.

Destille is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 808 customers.

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

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

Your discoveries in Heidelberg do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Heidelberg on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heidelberg. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Reserve a table at Trattoria Toscana, a renowned restaurant in Heidelberg. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 896 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Schilling Roofbar • Heidelberg (Cocktails & Sushi) while in Heidelberg. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 533 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Heidelberg at MEDOCS, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 552 customers.

After dinner, visit P11 Café Bar and experience the nightlife in the region of Heidelberg. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 711 customers.

You can also hang out at Karl. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 589 customers.

Locals recommend Sonder Bar (Pinte), so definitely check it out too. Sonder Bar (Pinte) is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 601 bar-goers.

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

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Heidelberg, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Heidelberg below.

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at urban kitchen, an acclaimed dining establishment in Heidelberg. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.2 out of 5-star rating from 2,263 satisfied guests.

Many locals go to Orange Cafe Bar to have a good time. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 103 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option is Lenox Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 109 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Heidelberg.

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 jump into the car and make your way to Bad Homburg, Wiesbaden, Darmstadt, and Cologne, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 5 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Darmstadt. This car ride takes around 52 min.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bad Homburg. This car ride takes around 36 min.

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.

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

Elevate your stay in Cologne by dining at this restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Le Moissonnier Bistro consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional french and seafood cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Cologne is Ox & Klee, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern and creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to Ox & Klee’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at La Cuisine Rademacher. This celebrated dining spot in Cologne is renowned for its creative meals and modern french menu. Countless guests have praised this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star status.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into Toddy Tapper. This bar is considered one of the best in Cologne and is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 590 customers.

You may also want to check out Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,484 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Gilden im Zims. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,823 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaststätte Lommerzheim, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 3,487 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant while in Cologne. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 4,282 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Jameson Pub Cologne, a favorite in Cologne. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,308 discerning guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Max Stark. This place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,193 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Limani. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,819 customers.

Bangkok Thai Restaurant is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Cologne. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,296 customers.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Cologne on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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.

Make a reservation at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular dining spot in Cologne. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 3,294 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina while indulging in the charm of Cologne. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,757 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of The Little Steakhouse, a treasured establishment in Cologne. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,631 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit The Corkonian Irish pub to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Cologne, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,421 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Little Link. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Little Link has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 971 customers.

Barney Vallely's is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 956 customers.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 2 nights left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Don't forget to book a table at Hommage Café, a well-known eatery in Cologne. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,630 satisfied guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Soul Bar Cologne. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 292 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Peters Brauhaus. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,437 customers.

Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,228 customers.

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

Day 12 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Cologne has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Germany by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 13 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Koblenz, Keldung, Neuwied, and Frankfurt. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Keldung. 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 40 min. Upon reaching Keldung, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Eltz Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,041 reviews.

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 Keldung to Koblenz may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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 region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Reserve your spot at Mainkai Café, a popular local restaurant in Frankfurt. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,040 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Zum Gemalten Haus during your stay in Frankfurt. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,641 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of African Queen Restaurant, a popular local gem in Frankfurt. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,731 satisfied guests.

If you're looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt, claiming it's one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 4,183 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Chicago Meatpackers. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,198 customers.

Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,883 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 14 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Frankfurt before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Frankfurt’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the region’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!