6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne and Stuttgart and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a charming, a historically significant, a majestic, and a picturesque! Start at Zoo Frankfurt, a well-known zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Iron Footbridge, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Nizza. This park is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Alte Oper. After exploring the opera house, head to the interesting Palmengarten. This botanical garden will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a monumental, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a charming. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cologne Zoological Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking zoo before continuing your journey. Cologne Cathedral is your next stop. This top-rated church is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Old Market. This awe-inspiring public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Soul Bar Cologne, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

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 2 vibrant destinations - Koblenz and Speyer. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stuttgart. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is an interesting castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour to Deutsches Eck, a picture-perfect monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

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 Speyer. Your travel time is around 1 hour 55 min.

Begin your journey at Technik Museum Speyer and explore the history-steeped features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stuttgart. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative 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 Ritzi Gourmet, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Petit Coq, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Jigger & Spoon offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Stuttgart and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Stuttgart and 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, and a history-steeped. Start at the popular Schloßplatz, an enchanting public square in Stuttgart. Next, go to Mercedes-benz Museum.

After visiting Schloßplatz and Mercedes-benz Museum, take time to explore Stuttgart's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Wilhelma. This instagrammable zoo offers a unique experience.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stuttgart, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Heidelberg may take around 1 hour 35 min. Upon your arrival in Heidelberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Gustav in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Gustav offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Lafleur, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Erno's Bistro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional classic french and modern menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Jambo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Cosy Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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