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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kassel, where you'll spend 1 night.

Römerberg is an ideal stop early in the day. This popular public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Iron Footbridge, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Frankfurt 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 Zoo Frankfurt, a popular zoo in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Alte Oper and Palmengarten.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kassel, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Shamrock - Irish Pub Kassel, a popular restaurant in Kassel. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kassel at Ginko - das glutenfreie Restaurant, 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 Gusto Tavola Calda. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kassel tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Stadt Stockholm Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe Bohemia Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Seibert provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

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.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a locally renowned museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Duisburg Zoo. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This locally renowned park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot in Cologne for its delicious modern french cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Brühl and Cologne. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

A visit to Schildergasse is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Belgisches Viertel as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.

Cologne Cathedral leaves a lasting impression. This church is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum, known for its picture-perfect features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Phantasialand is an impressive amusement park we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Glees, Keldung, and Koblenz are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

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.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Maria Laach Abbey, a curiosity-inducing monastery that everyone visiting Glees should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Keldung may take around 44 min. Upon your arrival in Keldung, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Keldung is Eltz Castle, an interesting castle that draws attention for its romantic features.

Koblenz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Keldung behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Koblenz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Deutsches Eck and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, another highlight in Koblenz.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Frankfurt's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lafleur is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Frankfurt. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Erno's Bistro. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic french and modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Jambo Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Cosy Bar, 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.