Two-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Munich, Heidelberg, and Mainz

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cologne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the famous Cologne Cathedral, a breathtaking church in Cologne. Next, go to Lindt Chocolate Museum.

After visiting Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cologne Zoological Garden. This gorgeous zoo offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lafleur is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Frankfurt. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Erno's Bistro. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic french and modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gute Stute, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Gleis 25 provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 3 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Frankfurt is brimming with adventures. Sachsenhausen is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Frankfurt. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Palmengarten and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Iron Footbridge, a romantic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Römerberg, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Zoo Frankfurt.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Restaurant Lohninger, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Apfelwein Dax boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ariston Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Jambo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Cosy Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Frankfurt and Würzburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nuremberg, where will spend 1 night.

One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Alte Oper. This visually striking opera house will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Würzburg. This car ride takes around 1 hour 27 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Marienberg Fortress, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Würzburg should see. Next, head to Old Main Bridge. This respected historical landmark is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Würzburg Residence, a romantic palace popular among locals as well as travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Irish Castle Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Mata Hari Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Undecided Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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

No visit to Nuremberg is complete without Nuremberg Castle. This well-known castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Schöner Brunnen, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Nuremberg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Handwerkerhof Nuremberg. This often recommended handicraft store is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Nazi Party Rally Grounds, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Munich. Munich offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Munich is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Munich.

Discover the culinary delights of Munich by securing a reservation at Atelier. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative french cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try EssZimmer, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative 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 Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Garçon after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Zephyr Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Holy Spirit 1 Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Munich. You have 4 nights left in Munich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Altstadt is a fantastic place you can explore today in Munich. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Munich-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Make a stop at Nymphenburg Palace. This locally renowned palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Marienplatz located in Munich for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Viktualienmarkt. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the food market, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Deutsches Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Munich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zum Dürnbräu is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zum Alten Markt. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Munich tonight.

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

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Munich has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Munich.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Schwabing, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Munich. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Visiting English Garden is always a good idea. This top-rated park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Bmw Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Bmw Welt. This popular museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Olympiapark, where you can take in instagrammable features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Munich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Clou, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Munich.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Boilerman Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Koli's Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Munich. You’ll stay in Munich for 2 nights.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Maximilianstraße. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Let Hellabrunn Zoo set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this peaceful zoo before continuing your journey. Stachus is your next stop. This popular public square is one of the best-rated sights in Munich.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Odeonsplatz. This majestic public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Eisbachwelle.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Savor the flavors at Trachtenvogl, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Munich Soup Kitchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Munich tonight.

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

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Garmisch-Partenkirchen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Linderhof Palace, a popular palace that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau, an underrated spa known for its awe-inspiring features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Horn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Hohenschwangau. This drive usually takes around 8 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Neuschwanstein Castle and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Hohenschwangau Castle, another highlight in Hohenschwangau.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Andechser am Dom, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Europa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Andy's Krablergarten. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Munich tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tabacco, known for its lively atmosphere. Havana Club is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 2 nights to spend in Heidelberg, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rust and Sinsheim to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

After soaking in Heidelberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rust. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive in Rust, it's time to take a break from the road.

Zuckerbrücke is an often recommended historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Silver Star, a breathtaking amusement park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Grimm's Enchanted Forest, an awe-inspiring park.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sinsheim. This car ride takes around 1 hour 42 min.

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

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at VINCIdue, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Essighaus. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Greet day 12 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Heidelberg, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Mannheim and Heidelberg.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Hauptstraße, a street that captures the true essence of Mannheim. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Whatever your travel style is, Old Bridge Heidelberg is an essential stop in Heidelberg. This well-known historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Heidelberger Marktplatz, an instagrammable public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Castle, a top-rated castle.

Set your GPS to Mannheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Mannheim beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Watertower Of Mannheim and explore the visually striking features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Löwenbräu, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at HUGO Wine & Dine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Continue your lively evening at P11 Café Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Karl is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

Dive into day 13 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Speyer and Mainz. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Mainz, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Speyer. This car ride takes around 34 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Speyer Cathedral, a captivating church in Speyer. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Technik Museum Speyer. This well-known aviation museum is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Speyer’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mainz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive in Mainz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Mainz Cathedral is an intriguing church we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mainz, 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 Mainz. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Geberts Weinstuben, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional classic and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, FAVORITE restaurant, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 14 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Koblenz, Königswinter, and Brühl are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Mainz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Koblenz. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Savor the day by heading to Deutsches Eck, a popular monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Königswinter may take around 1 hour. Upon your arrival in Königswinter, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

When you’ve had your share of Königswinter, 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 42 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Phantasialand, an astonishing amusement park in Brühl. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.