5-Day Germany Road Trip from Frankfurt to Cologne, and Koblenz

Welcome to Frankfurt, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Frankfurt's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Frankfurt is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Alte Oper or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt. 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.

Experience a taste of Gustav in Frankfurt by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Gustav delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french, 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 Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french, and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gute Stute stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gleis 25 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

On day 2 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 Frankfurt. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Römer. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,117 visitors.

Römerberg is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 travelers.

Frankfurt is also the home of Iron Footbridge. Around 23,403 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Zoo Frankfurt. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from a total of 22,905 reviews, a visit to this zoo is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Frankfurt is also your chance to admire Palmengarten. This must-visit botanical garden enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cologne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french, and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cologne, and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Cologne Cathedral. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors, this catholic cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Phantasialand, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,750,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

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

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

Experience a taste of Verbene in Koblenz by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Verbene delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kaffeewirtschaft GmbH. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Koblenz this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Spökes, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dubai Shisha Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, EXCALIBUR - The Rock Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Koblenz, Speyer, and Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Deutsches Eck one of your first sightseeing stops in Koblenz. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,555 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This fortress is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 reviews.

Set your GPS to Speyer and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 52 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Speyer beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Technik Museum Speyer is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,541 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Lohninger, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Apfelwein Dax, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ariston Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Jambo Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Cosy Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Frankfurt before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Frankfurt’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Take the opportunity to see Nizza. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,282 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. 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!