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

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Cologne and Bonn. With 1 night to stay in Düsseldorf, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Düsseldorf, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne. This drive usually takes around 53 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lindt Chocolate Museum. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Rheinboulevard. This underrated boardwalk is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Cologne Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bonn is Beethoven-haus Bonn, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Beethoven-denkmal, an instagrammable monument that stands out in the city.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Studio 1 stand out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Engel Rockbar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Heidelberg. Your travel time is around 3 hours 16 min.

Savor the day by heading to Heidelberg Castle, a top-rated castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Heidelberger Marktplatz, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Next, explore Old Bridge Heidelberg, yet another notable place to see in the area. After the historical landmark, make time to go to Philosophers’ Way. This romantic hiking area is well worth the visit.

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

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 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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

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

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.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Düsseldorf, where you'll spend 1 night.

Baden-Baden’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heidelberg behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Baden-Baden welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Trinkhalle, a beloved museum known for its culturally significant features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Freiburg im Breisgau may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Freiburg im Breisgau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Freiburg im Breisgau is Freiburger Münsterbauverein, a captivating church that draws attention for its majestic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Bertoldsbrunnen, a heritage-rich public square that stands out in the town.

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 Martin's Gate, a curiosity-inducing monument that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Say good night to Düsseldorf and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!