14-Day Germany Road Trip from Stuttgart traveling west to Karlsruhe, Koblenz, Essen, Dortmund, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Heidelberg

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Stuttgart. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Stuttgart TV Tower. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,522 reviews.

Continue your journey at Mercedes-Benz Museum. This automobile museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 42,800 travelers from near and far. Approximately 876,109 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Stuttgart.

Stuttgart is also the home of Wilhelma. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 33,034 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Porsche Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,816 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Carls Brauhaus, a highly-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're eager to try something different, consider Japanisches Restaurant KICHO, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Paulaner am alten Postplatz. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

Keep the evening going at SI-Centrum Stuttgart, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mata Hari, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is reBOOTS, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Pforzheim, Sinsheim, and Mannheim. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stuttgart, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pforzheim may take around 47 min. Upon your arrival in Pforzheim, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Wildpark Pforzheim one of your first sightseeing stops in Pforzheim. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,654 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking in Pforzheim’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 6 min. When you arrive in Sinsheim, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Technikmuseum Sinsheim. Previous visitors have rated this technology museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,645 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe 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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Karlsruhe by securing a reservation at Bistro Margarete. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit sein, celebrated for its delectable modern 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 TAWA YAMA FINE, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Say good night to Karlsruhe and look forward to another great 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 Speyer, Keldung, and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Koblenz, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Karlsruhe, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Speyer. Your travel time is around 42 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Speyer Cathedral. This much-appreciated catholic cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,020 reviews.

Next up is Technic Museum Speyer. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,991 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Eltz Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,041 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Koblenz, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Koblenz by reserving a table at Verbene. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kaffeewirtschaft GmbH. 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.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl and Düsseldorf, 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 Essen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Brühl, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 89,377 visitors. Around 1,750,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Brühl Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,389 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brühl, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Düsseldorf may take around 47 min. Upon your arrival in Düsseldorf, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Benrath. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,559 visitors.

Next, make your way to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This top attraction is an aquarium with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,180 visitors.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Schote, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Also, consider Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Essen tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Südrock rock pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to gentleM for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,866 reviews.

Shaft XII is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,311 reviews.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

Next up is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,129 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Dortmund. Dortmund 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Also, be sure to check out Strobels Dortmund. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vater&Sohn, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out CENTRAL Bar & More Dortmund, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Gaststätte Lütge-Eck provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 8 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Dortmund, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Dortmund for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Dortmund and Bochum to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Journey into the unknown at Dortmund Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 15,486 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Rombergpark Botanical Garden is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,482 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Dortmund is Westfalenpark. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,165 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dortmund offers an experience you will remember.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dortmund, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bochum may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Bochum, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,506 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Brasserie Lotte, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ALEX Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

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

Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Dortmund, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Hamm and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hamm beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Maximilianpark Hamm. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,092 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Hamm, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bottrop. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

Make Tetrahedron in Bottrop one of your first sightseeing stops in Bottrop. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,675 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sterkrade. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gasometer Oberhausen. This extraordinary gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,121 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dortmund and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at KLUBHAUS1249, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Atlantico Café? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at FOOD BROTHER as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dortmund.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Bonn, and Königswinter. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Wuppertal. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Wuppertal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,627 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bonn. This car ride takes around 59 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,523 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Rheinaue. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,226 reviews.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Toddy Tapper after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Soul Bar Cologne, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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

Make Cologne Chocolate Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Cologne. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Old Market is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,740 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Up to 5,000,000 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 30,118 previous visitors.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Lafleur, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Erno's Bistro, a local favorite known for its delightful classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic french and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gleis 25 offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 12 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Römerberg your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,391 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Iron Footbridge. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,044 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Zoo Frankfurt is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This zoo has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,563 visitors.

When you’re finished at Zoo Frankfurt, the perfect next stop is Alte Oper. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,371 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palmengarten. This botanical garden is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,050 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Heidelberg. Heidelberg 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Sonder Bar (Pinte), ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Destille is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 13 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg, 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 Stuttgart. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Neckarwiese (Heidelberg). This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,998 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,651 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Kornmarkt. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 249 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Heidelberg Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,117 travelers.

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

As you explore more of Stuttgart, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ambiente Africa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, ABACCO'S STEAKHOUSE Stuttgart offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, 5 Gourmet Restaurant & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stuttgart.

Continue your lively evening at FOU FOU | Cocktail- und Champagnerbar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kap Tormentoso is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Waranga ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.