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

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 Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

After soaking in Dortmund’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cologne Zoological Garden, a popular zoo that everyone visiting Cologne should see. Next, head to Malakoffturm. This picture-perfect monument is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Cologne Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this widely recognized church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Old Market, a visually striking public square and a top attraction in the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Heidelberg, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Heidelberg may take around 2 hours 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Heidelberg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Heidelberg Castle. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Heidelberg Tun. This locally appreciated wine cellar is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Philosophers’ Way. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the hiking area. Next, take your journey to Neckarwiese (heidelberg), a locally appreciated park.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, 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 Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, 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 Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sonder Bar (pinte) provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Frankfurt and Limburg a der Lahn. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Heidelberg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Frankfurt. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min.

Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Iron Footbridge, a history-steeped monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Römerberg, a popular public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Palmengarten, a nearby botanical garden, highly recommended by other travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Limburg a der Lahn, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Frankfurt to Limburg a der Lahn may take around 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Limburg a der Lahn, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Limburg Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

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

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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!