5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Cologne Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cologne Zoological Garden, another must-visit landmark and well-known zoo renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Heidelberg, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Hauptstraße is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Stuttgart, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many other must-see landmarks.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heidelberg allows for both. Start by heading to Heidelberg Castle. This famous castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stuttgart, 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 Heidelberg to Stuttgart may take around 1 hour 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stuttgart, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Mercedes-benz Museum, a locally renowned museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Schloßplatz, a visually striking public square that stands out in the city.

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

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

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Destille, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Lenox Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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, Koblenz, and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

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 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Technik Museum Speyer is a notable aviation museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Koblenz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Speyer behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. Koblenz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Deutsches Eck is a notable monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Koblenz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 1 hour 2 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Phantasialand, an extraordinary amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne, 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 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater 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!