Two-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg, Munich, Nuremberg, Dresden, Berlin, and Hanover

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

Today’s route brings a visually striking, a mesmerizing, a heritage-rich, a sacred, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. The first attraction of today is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum is an instagrammable place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Cologne Cathedral, a stunning church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This popular zoo offers a picture-perfect encounter with Cologne.

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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Brühl, Königswinter, and Mannheim. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

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 Brühl. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Phantasialand, a famous amusement park known for its photogenic features.

Set your GPS to Königswinter and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Königswinter beckons with new experiences!

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

After soaking in Königswinter’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mannheim. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 15 min. When you arrive in Mannheim, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Luisenpark, a locally renowned park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Watertower Of Mannheim, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Bar Goodfellas is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nuremberg and Zwickau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dresden, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a historic, a symbolic, and a noteworthy in the charming city of Nuremberg. Your adventure starts at Fleisch Bridge, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Schöner Brunnen. This often recommended monument is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Nuremberg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Nuremberg Castle. This instagrammable castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

After soaking in Nuremberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Zwickau. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 24 min. When you arrive in Zwickau, it's time to take a break from the road.

August Horch Museum Zwickau is an increasingly popular museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dresden. 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 Dresden. 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 harmony of flavors at ElbUferei in Dresden by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, ElbUferei offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious mediterranean and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Genuss-Atelier, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Elements, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern and international menu.

Keep the evening going at Hebeda's, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Blondes, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dresden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 5 nights.

A blend of a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a history-steeped, a monumental, and a symbolic await you in Dresden on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating palace, Zwinger. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Semperoper. A visit to this opera house is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Dresden’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Church Of Our Lady. This captivating church is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Brühl's Terrace, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 Berlin. Berlin 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 Berlin, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Berlin by securing a table at Rutz. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover FACIL, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and contemporary cuisine in Berlin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Monkey Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Saint Jean for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Green Door Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Berlin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Berlin Zoological Garden. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, a must-visit monument 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 East Side Gallery, an impressive street art. For a change of scene, check out Brandenburg Gate, known for its breathtaking features.

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 reserve a table at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Berlin TV Tower, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with a photogenic, a historic, a romantic, a mesmerizing, and a culturally significant in Berlin. Begin your sightseeing with German Museum Of Technology. This captivating museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Fernsehturm Berlin, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Berlin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Alexanderplatz. This world-famous public square is a traveler-favorite.

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

Savor the flavors at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Marjellchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Booze Bar Berlin, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Victoria Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 11 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.

A blend of a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a symbolic, a noteworthy, an inviting, a romantic, and a picturesque await you in Berlin on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned monument, Siegessäule. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Berlin Wall Memorial. A visit to this war memorial is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Berlin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Berlin Cathedral. This notable church is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Großer Tiergarten, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Volkspark Friedrichshain and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most well-known attractions.

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 Berlin, 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 Curry 61, 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 Gasthaus Krombach, 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 SOY. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Berlin tonight.

Keep the evening going at Franken Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mikkeller Berlin, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Limonadier Cocktailbar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

Get ready for a day filled with an instagrammable, a historically significant, an inviting, a majestic, a romantic, a serene, a gorgeous, and a remarkable in the charming city of Berlin. Your adventure starts at Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Treptower Park. This interesting park is known for its standout 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 Checkpoint Charlie. This symbolic historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Topography Of Terror is also worth visiting, along with Potsdamer Platz. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Misfit Bar Berlin, a highly-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Gas holder, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Thecoven Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Möbel Olfe is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Schmitz Katze is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 13 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 Berlin and Potsdam. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a gorgeous, an eye-catching, and a history-steeped. Whether you decide to explore Berlin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Charlottenburg Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic palace before continuing your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Berlin and set your GPS to Potsdam. 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 32 min. Upon reaching Potsdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Sanssouci, a notable palace that everyone visiting Potsdam should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Sanssouci Park. This detailed park is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Handwerk delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jante, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Votum, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Seña, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sternwarte is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 14 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hanover and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hanover, including a food market, a zoo, and a botanical garden. Start your adventure at Markthalle Hannover. This beloved food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hanover Zoo located in Hanover for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Herrenhausen Gardens. Its visually striking features will captivate you.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hanover, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duisburg may take around 2 hours 41 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and explore the picture-perfect features.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!