6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne and Heidelberg

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dortmund today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lindt Chocolate Museum and learn what makes this instagrammable museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Museum Ludwig. After exploring the museum, head to Cologne Cathedral. This widely recognized church is a highlight in Dortmund.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Reichard. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a castle, a wine cellar, a church, a historical landmark, a hiking area and much more! Start your day at Heidelberg Castle. This awe-inspiring castle is an impressive place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Heidelberg Tun. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this wine cellar will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. This inviting church is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Old Bridge Heidelberg is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Philosophers’ Way. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this intriguing hiking area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sonder Bar (pinte), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Heidelberg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Heidelberg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Mittelburg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning castle before continuing your journey. Luisenpark is your next stop. This popular park is one of the best-rated sights in Heidelberg.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Watertower Of Mannheim. This romantic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Mannheim Baroque Palace and Jesuit Church, Mannheim.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at VINCIdue, 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 Essighaus. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Destille. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Orange Cafe Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Lenox Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Frankfurt. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Heidelberg, including a monument, a public square, a church, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This popular monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Römerberg, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Heidelberg on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Frankfurt Cathedral, a locally appreciated church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Goethe House.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gaststätte Lütge-eck offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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