7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Koblenz, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, and Freiburg im Breisgau

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Cologne, 1 night in Koblenz, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Baden-Baden, and 1 night in Freiburg im Breisgau. 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 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 Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Deutsches Eck, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Koblenz, Braubach, Biebernheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg, 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!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Cologne Cathedral
RheinboulevardCologne Chocolate MuseumEhrenbreitstein FortressEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
MarksburgRheinfels CastleHeidelberg ZooOld Bridge HeidelbergHeidelberger Marktplatz
Philosophers' WayHeidelberg PalaceScheffelterrasseGönneranlageThe Baden-Baden Casino
Triberg WaterfallsHusen CastleAugustiner MuseumFreiburg MinsterStadtgarten FreiburgBertoldsbrunnen
PlönleinWürzburg ResidenceFour Tubes FountainOld Main Bridge
Old Market

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
  • More
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne 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.

Cologne 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 Cologne Cathedral, or just 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 Cologne. 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. 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 lovely dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Cologne
  • Koblenz
  • More

Drive 113 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Rheinboulevard
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • More

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

Start by visiting Rheinboulevard, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic boardwalk is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lindt Chocolate Museum, another must-visit landmark and captivating museum renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This culturally significant castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Deutsches Eck, a well-known monument.

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

Dine in style at Café Konditorei Werrmann, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Altes Brauhaus boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Koblenz.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Spökes, known for its lively atmosphere. Dubai Shisha Lounge is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Koblenz
  • Heidelberg
  • More

Drive 201 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Marksburg
  • Rheinfels Castle
  • Heidelberg Zoo
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • Heidelberger Marktplatz
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Braubach, Biebernheim, and Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Koblenz is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a zoo, a historical landmark, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Marksburg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rheinfels Castle, a romantic castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Heidelberg Zoo, one of the town’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Old Bridge Heidelberg. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Heidelberger Marktplatz awaits your visit. This public square is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

As you explore more of Heidelberg, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining spot in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heidelberg.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Heidelberg
  • Baden-Baden
  • More

Drive 107 km, 2 hours 40 min

  • Philosophers' Way
  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Scheffelterrasse
  • Gönneranlage
  • The Baden-Baden Casino
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg and Baden-Baden, 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 Baden-Baden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Philosophers’ Way, an often recommended hiking area in the city. Then, head to Heidelberg Castle and soak in the ambiance of this romantic castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Scheffelterrasse. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated romantic spots of interest. After exploring the observation deck, visit the underrated Gönneranlage. Not far away, you'll also find The Baden-baden Casino. This casino is a romantic highlight in Heidelberg.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Baden-Baden. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Monte Christo, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bistro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Einhorn | Café • Restaurant • Weinbar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Baden-Baden.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Havana Shisha Lounge is an excellent place to start.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Baden-Baden
  • Freiburg im Breisgau
  • More

Drive 182 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • Triberg Waterfalls
  • Husen Castle
  • Augustiner Museum
  • Freiburg Minster
  • Stadtgarten Freiburg
  • Bertoldsbrunnen
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, and Freiburg im Breisgau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Baden-Baden includes a waterfall, a castle, a museum, a church, a park, a public square and much more! Triberg Waterfalls is must-visit waterfall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Husen Castle, a beloved castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Augustiner Museum, a standout museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Baden-Baden. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the well-known Freiburger Münsterbauverein. If you’re looking for more, Stadtgarten Freiburg is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Bertoldsbrunnen, a place of photogenic interest in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Freiburg im Breisgau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel Oberkirch, a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Freiburg im Breisgau at Süden, 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 El Gallo Freiburg. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Freiburg im Breisgau tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Am Funkeneck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Beat Bar Butzemann. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Freiburg im Breisgau
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 686 km, 7 hours 41 min

  • Plönlein
  • Würzburg Residence
  • Four Tubes Fountain
  • Old Main Bridge
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Würzburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the up-and-coming Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), an enchanting public square in Freiburg im Breisgau. Next, go to Würzburg Residence.

After visiting Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) and Würzburg Residence, have a stroll along Freiburg im Breisgau's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Four Tubes Fountain. This standout monument offers a unique experience. Old Main Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Cologne - Departure day
  • More
  • Old Market
  • More

Day 7 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 captivating public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Cologne’s shopping center, the lively Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel). Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Germany

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.