6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Koblenz

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Photo of Cologne sunset city skyline with Cologne Cathedral and Rhine River, Cologne, Germany.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Germany. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 4 nights in Cologne and 1 night in Koblenz. 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 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Bonn, Biebernheim, Koblenz, Cochem, Traben-Trarbach, Keldung, Trier, and Heimbach, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
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  • Schildergasse
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Say hello to Cologne! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cologne for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

Cologne is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cologne. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SAVOY Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Reichard as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Cologne
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Rheinpark
  • Belgisches Viertel
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cologne.

Belgisches Viertel is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum is always a good idea. This notable museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Cologne Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

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 Rheinpark. This curiosity-inducing park offers an enriching experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Biebernheim
  • Koblenz
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Drive 293 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • Rheinfels Castle
  • Stolzenfels Castle
  • Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Cologne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Biebernheim, Koblenz-Stolzenfels, and Koblenz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Biebernheim. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rheinfels Castle. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Biebernheim’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz-Stolzenfels. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Koblenz-Stolzenfels, 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 Stolzenfels Castle, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Koblenz-Stolzenfels should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Koblenz may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation, an underrated tramway that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Deutsches Eck, where you can soak in the remarkable surroundings.

Next, explore Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, yet another popular place to see in the area.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Cochem
  • Traben-Trarbach
  • Keldung
  • Koblenz
  • More

Drive 282 km, 4 hours 41 min

  • Cochem Castle
  • Grevenburg Castle Ruins
  • Eltz Castle
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Cochem, Traben-Trarbach, and Keldung. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cochem. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Reichsburg Cochem, a popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Traben-Trarbach. This drive usually takes around 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grevenburg Castle Ruins, an often recommended castle known for its visually striking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Traben-Trarbach and set your GPS to Keldung. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Keldung, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Eltz Castle, a notable castle that everyone visiting Keldung should see.

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.

Koblenz 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 Koblenz.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Konditorei Werrmann, an iconic dining spot in Koblenz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Altes Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Koblenz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Koblenz. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Spökes, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dubai Shisha Lounge offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Koblenz. Excalibur - The Rock Cafe is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Koblenz
  • Trier
  • Heimbach
  • Cologne
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Drive 325 km, 4 hours 42 min

  • Trier Amphitheater
  • Aula Palatina
  • Marktbrunnen
  • Porta Nigra
  • Burg Hengebach
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Trier and Heimbach. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Koblenz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Trier. Your travel time is around 1 hour 25 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Trier Amphitheater and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Aula Palatina, another highlight in Trier. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Petrusbrunnen, a symbolic monument.

Nearby, you will also find Porta Nigra. This notable monument is a top place to see in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Heimbach, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Trier to Heimbach may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Heimbach, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Burg Hengebach, a worthwhile castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Servus Colonia Alpina. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Cologne - Departure day
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  • Old Market
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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, begin at Old Market. This well-known public square is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Cologne, we recommend the lively Schildergasse. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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