5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Baden-Baden and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-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 Karlsruhe and 2 nights in Baden-Baden. 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 Karlsruhe, 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. Heidelberg Castle and Mercedes-benz Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Triberg Waterfalls, learn more about the unique Old Bridge Heidelberg, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberger Marktplatz.
As you hit the open road and drive through Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, Stuttgart, and Tübingen, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Karlsruhe - Arrival day
- More
- Kaiserstraße
- More
Welcome to Karlsruhe, 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 Karlsruhe's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Karlsruhe 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 Kaiserstraße, a must-see street, and 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 Karlsruhe. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Kleinen Ketterer boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Karlsruhe.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Phono Craftbeer Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar 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!
Day 2
- Karlsruhe
- Baden-Baden
- More
Drive 173 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Philosophers' Way
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Heidelberg Palace
- Geroldsauer Wasserfall
- More
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 Heidelberg and Baden-Baden. In the evening, you’ll end up in Baden-Baden, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Philosophers’ Way. This worthwhile hiking area is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Old Bridge Heidelberg, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Heidelberger Marktplatz, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Karlsruhe. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Heidelberg Castle. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this castle offers. Then, head to Geroldsauer Wasserfall, a top-rated waterfall that adds another dimension to your day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Baden-Baden, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Baden-Baden. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Monte Christo, a top-rated dining destination in Baden-Baden. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Einhorn | Café • Restaurant • Weinbar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Baden-Baden this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Havana Shisha Lounge is an excellent place to start.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 3
- Baden-Baden
- More
Drive 217 km, 4 hours 17 min
- Triberg Waterfalls
- Husen Castle
- Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein
- Sintersteinbrunnen
- The Baden-Baden Casino
- More
On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Baden-Baden, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Baden-Baden for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, and Baden-Baden to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s itinerary in Baden-Baden covers several incredible sights, including a waterfall, a castle, a visitor center, a monument, a casino and much more! Start your adventure at Triberg Waterfalls. This interesting waterfall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Husen Castle, a must-see castle in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein. This locally appreciated visitor center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sintersteinbrunnen, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to The Baden-baden Casino. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Baden-Baden and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Baden-Baden, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Fritz & Felix, a popular restaurant in Baden-Baden. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Baden-Baden at RIVE GAUCHE BRASSERIE · Club Twenty One, 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 RIZZI The Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Baden-Baden tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Baden-Baden
- Karlsruhe
- More
Drive 351 km, 5 hours 8 min
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Stadtmuseum Tübingen
- Hangender Stein
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Stuttgart, Tübingen, and Balingen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Baden-Baden, including a museum and a rock formation. Start your day at Mercedes-benz Museum. This respected museum is an interesting place to see in Baden-Baden. Then, wander over to Stadtmuseum Tübingen. If historic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Hangender Stein. This stunning rock formation is a favorite among visitors.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Karlsruhe's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at kap, a highly-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're eager to try something different, consider Enchilada Karlsruhe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Badisch Brauhaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Carlos Cocktailbar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Ubu, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 5
- Karlsruhe - Departure day
- More
- Marktplatz
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Marktplatz, a picture-perfect public square before you head out.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Karlsruhe's best shopping area, Postgalerie Karlsruhe. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Osteria Karlsruhe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
