4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Heidelberg
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 4-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Cologne and 1 night in Heidelberg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cologne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Cologne Cathedral and Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Heidelberg, Speyer, and Koblenz, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Cologne - arrival day
- Cologne - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Cologne is a beautiful city 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 Cologne. 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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SAVOY Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Reichard as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Cologne and Heidelberg
- Cologne
- Heidelberg
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Old Market
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Zoological Garden
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a public square, a church, a museum, a zoo and much more! Start your day at Old Market. This enchanting public square is a popular place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.
Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cologne Zoological Garden is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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 Heidelberg. Heidelberg 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heidelberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sonder Bar (pinte), a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café Bar Goodfellas likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Say good night to Heidelberg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3 – Heidelberg, Speyer, Koblenz, and Cologne
- Heidelberg
- Speyer
- Koblenz
- Cologne
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Drive 320 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Heidelberg Palace
- Technic Museum Speyer
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg, Speyer, and Koblenz. 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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Heidelberg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark and a castle. Begin your adventure at Old Bridge Heidelberg. This is a notable historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Heidelberg Castle, an impressive castle in Heidelberg.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Speyer. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Technik Museum Speyer. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the aviation museum before you continue to your next stop.
Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!
Deutsches Eck is a captivating monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its masterful features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.
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 in Germany.
Day 4 – Cologne - departure day
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Cologne Cathedral
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Day 4 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Cologne’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!
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