6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Heidelberg
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cologne, Koblenz, Boppard, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Limburg a der Lahn, and Aull. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cologne and 2 nights in Heidelberg. 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 Cologne, 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. Cologne Cathedral and Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Deutsches Eck, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Koblenz, Boppard, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Limburg a der Lahn, and Aull, 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!
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Day 1
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Cologne Cathedral
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Cologne 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 Cologne Cathedral, or just 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 Cologne. 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
- Stolzenfels Castle
- Sesselbahn Boppard
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Koblenz, Koblenz-Stolzenfels, and Boppard.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Deutsches Eck, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Cologne. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Stolzenfels Castle. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this castle offers. Then, head to Sesselbahn Boppard, a top-rated tramway that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 3
- Cologne
- Heidelberg
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Philosophers' Way
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Heidelberg Palace
- Scheffelterrasse
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Philosophers’ Way. This eye-catching hiking area is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Old Bridge Heidelberg, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, an up-and-coming church. For a change of scene, check out Heidelberg Castle, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Scheffelterrasse. This observation deck is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 4
- Heidelberg
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Merkur Funicular Railway
- Gönneranlage
- Museum Frieder Burda
- Trinkhalle
- Kur Park
- The Baden-Baden Casino
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On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Heidelberg for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Baden-Baden to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heidelberg, including a heritage railway, a park, a museum, a casino and much more! Start your adventure at Merkur Funicular Railway. This intriguing heritage railway is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Gönneranlage located in Heidelberg for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Museum Frieder Burda. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Trinkhalle. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this museum. Next up is Kur Park, a highly recommended park. For a change of pace, head to The Baden-baden Casino. As one of the most beloved attractions in Heidelberg, this casino is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heidelberg.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heidelberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Destille, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Orange Cafe Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Lenox Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 5
- Heidelberg
- Cologne
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Limburg Cathedral
- Alte Lahnbrücke Limburg
- Katzenturm
- Limburg an der Lahn Altstadt
- Schloss Oranienstein Diez
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On day 5 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 Limburg a der Lahn and Aull. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Heidelberg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a historical landmark, a monument, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Limburg Cathedral and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Alte Lahnbrücke Limburg, a culturally significant historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Katzenturm, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Limburg A Der Lahn Altstadt. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Schloss Oranienstein Diez awaits your visit. This castle is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Suderman, a top-rated bar 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 in Germany.
Day 6
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Cologne Chocolate Museum
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Day 6 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum, an eye-catching museum before you head out.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne's best shopping area, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel). Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Riese Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bangkok Thai Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!
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