7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Füssen, and Munich

1 / 74
Photo of Cologne sunset city skyline with Cologne Cathedral and Rhine River, Cologne, Germany.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 7-day road trip in Germany! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cologne, Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Kirnbach, Hausach, Füssen, Hohenschwangau, Waltenhofen, Munich, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Cologne, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Triberg im Schwarzwald, 1 night in Füssen, and 1 night in Munich. 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 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. Marienplatz and Neuschwanstein Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Kirnbach, Hausach, Füssen, Hohenschwangau, Waltenhofen, Munich, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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, accommodations, 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

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Cologne

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

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

Welcome to Cologne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Cologne before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SAVOY Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Reichard 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 The Grid Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Toddy Tapper, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Cologne
  • Heidelberg
  • More

Drive 259 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Karlsplatz
  • Church of the Holy Spirit
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • Philosophers' Way
  • More

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

Set your GPS to Heidelberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heidelberg beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Heidelberg Castle and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Karlsplatz, another highlight in Heidelberg. When you’re done exploring the public square, continue to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a culturally significant church.

Nearby, you will also find Old Bridge Heidelberg. This interesting historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Philosophers’ Way, a serene hiking area that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heidelberg. Check in and relax 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 Heidelberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sonder Bar (pinte), a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café Bar Goodfellas likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Heidelberg
  • Triberg
  • Kirnbach
  • More

Drive 250 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Triberg Waterfalls
  • Schwarzwaldmuseum
  • Blindensee
  • Spitzfelsen
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Triberg im Schwarzwald, Vogte, Kirnbach, and Hausach. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Triberg im Schwarzwald, where will spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Triberg im Schwarzwald. This car ride takes around 2 hours 18 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Triberg Waterfalls, a well-known waterfall that everyone visiting Triberg im Schwarzwald should see. Next, head to Schwarzwaldmuseum. This standout museum is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vogte. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Vogte is Blindensee, a locally appreciated lake that draws attention for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vogte and set your GPS to Kirnbach. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Kirnbach, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Spitzfelsen. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the rock formation before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Triberg im Schwarzwald. Triberg im Schwarzwald 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 Triberg im Schwarzwald. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Head back to your accommodation in Triberg im Schwarzwald and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Triberg
  • Füssen
  • Hohenschwangau
  • Waltenhofen
  • More

Drive 266 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Lechfall
  • Hohenschwangau Castle
  • Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Marienbrücke
  • St. Coloman
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Füssen, Hohenschwangau, and Waltenhofen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Füssen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Füssen. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Lechfall, a worthwhile waterfall that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Hohenschwangau, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Füssen to Hohenschwangau may take around 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hohenschwangau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Hohenschwangau Castle, an interesting castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Neuschwanstein Castle and admire its enchanting features.

When you’re ready, continue to Marienbrücke, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking in Hohenschwangau’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Waltenhofen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 4 min. When you arrive in Waltenhofen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St. Coloman, an up-and-coming church that everyone visiting Waltenhofen should see.

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

Füssen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Füssen.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bayrish Pub, an iconic dining spot in Füssen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Füssen
  • Munich
  • More

Drive 137 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Nymphenburg Palace
  • Victuals Market
  • Marienplatz
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Munich. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Füssen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Munich. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min.

Nymphenburg Palace is a locally renowned palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Viktualienmarkt, a picture-perfect food market that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Marienplatz, a history-steeped public square.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Little London / Bar & Grill, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ginkgo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Munich.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Garçon stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Munich
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 613 km, 6 hours 51 min

  • Blade Gate
  • Burggarten
  • Medieval Crime Museum
  • Plönlein
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rothenburg ob der Tauber are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Munich and set your GPS to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. 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 2 hours 44 min. Upon reaching Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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 town's best attractions, visit Blade Gate, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Castle Garden and admire its mesmerizing features.

When you’re ready, continue to Medieval Crime Museum, a beloved museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Cologne - Departure day
  • More
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne, Schildergasse is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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.