6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt traveling north to Kassel and Cologne

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Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Frankfurt, Kassel, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Keldung, and Koblenz. 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 2 nights in Frankfurt, 1 night in Kassel, and 2 nights in Cologne. 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 Frankfurt, 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. Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Frankfurt, Kassel, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Keldung, and Koblenz, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Alte Oper
Frankfurter RömerRömerbergIron FootbridgeZoo FrankfurtPalmengarten Frankfurt
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinDuisburg ZooLandschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
PhantasialandCologne Chocolate MuseumCologne CathedralCologne Zoological Garden
Maria Laach AbbeyEltz CastleEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckEhrenbreitstein FortressCologne Cathedral
NizzaFrankfurter Römer

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Day 1

Day 1 – Frankfurt - arrival day

  • Frankfurt - Arrival day
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  • Alte Oper
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Frankfurt and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night 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.

Frankfurt 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 Alte Oper or 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 Frankfurt. 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 in Frankfurt. 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.

Savor the flavors at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Im Herzen Afrikas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gute Stute. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Frankfurt and Kassel

  • Frankfurt
  • Kassel
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Drive 201 km, 2 hours 34 min

  • Frankfurter Römer
  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Frankfurt, 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 Kassel. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings an enchanting, an eye-catching, a historically significant, a charming, a symbolic, and a majestic. The first attraction of today is Römer. This curiosity-inducing city hall is a picture-perfect place to see in Frankfurt. Continue your discovery at Römerberg, a history-steeped public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Frankfurt, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This popular monument offers an enchanting encounter with Frankfurt. Zoo Frankfurt is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Frankfurt.

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 Kassel. Kassel 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Shamrock - Irish Pub Kassel, a highly-rated dining destination in Kassel. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ginko - das glutenfreie Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gusto Tavola Calda. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kassel this evening.

Keep the evening going at Stadt Stockholm Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafe Bohemia Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Seibert, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Kassel, Essen, Duisburg, and Cologne

  • Kassel
  • Essen
  • Duisburg
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 306 km, 4 hours 17 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Essen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duisburg may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum that everyone visiting Essen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Duisburg Zoo and explore the gorgeous features. Next, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another highlight 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Zur Tant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Cologne and Brühl

  • Cologne
  • Eckdorf
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Phantasialand
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • More

On day 4 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 will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brühl and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a museum, a church, and a zoo. Start your day at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This photogenic museum is a well-known place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cologne Zoological Garden. This gorgeous zoo is a favorite among visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the instagrammable features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Cologne, Glees, Keldung, Koblenz, and Frankfurt

  • Cologne
  • Keldung
  • Koblenz
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 23 min

  • Maria Laach Abbey
  • Eltz Castle
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

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

Glees’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. Glees welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Maria Laach Abbey, an underrated monastery known for its instagrammable features.

When you’ve had your share of Glees, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Keldung. Your travel time is around 44 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Eltz Castle, a notable castle known for its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Keldung, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Deutsches Eck and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, another highlight in the hamlet.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Lafleur in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Lafleur offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Gustav, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing 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 Seven Swans, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional vegan and creative menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Jambo Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Cosy Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Frankfurt - departure day

  • Frankfurt - Departure day
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  • Nizza
  • Frankfurter Römer
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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 Frankfurt before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Frankfurt’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Start your adventure at Nizza. This beloved park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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

Savor the flavors at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chicago Meatpackers beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. 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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