Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Frankfurt

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Uncover the beauty of Germany on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Cologne, Keldung, Koblenz, Frankfurt, Bonn, Königswinter, and Brühl. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Germany at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Cologne, Keldung, Koblenz, Frankfurt, Bonn, Königswinter, and Brühl. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Cologne and 3 nights in Frankfurt. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Germany.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Germany. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Cologne, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Germany and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Germany with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Germany.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Germany. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Phantasialand. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cologne Cathedral.

Traveling leisurely through Germany means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Lindt Chocolate Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Deutsches Eck. Get close to the spectacular Cologne Zoological Garden and the wonderful Eltz Castle. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Germany's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Germany.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Germany. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Germany's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Germany.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Germany. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Germany. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Germany and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Schildergasse
Cologne Zoological GardenCologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumBelgisches Viertel
Maria Laach AbbeyEltz CastleEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckEhrenbreitstein Fortress
Iron FootbridgeRömerbergZoo FrankfurtZeilSachsenhausen
Senckenberg MuseumPalmengarten FrankfurtAlte OperNizzaStädel Museum
House of the History of the Federal Republic of GermanyRheinaueSchloss DrachenburgPhantasialand
Old Market

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
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  • Schildergasse
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Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cologne and begin your adventure in Germany.

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 Schildergasse, a must-see street, and 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany. Enjoy your first taste of Cologne as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cologne
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Drive 9 km, 50 min

  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Belgisches Viertel
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

Set aside time today to explore Belgisches Viertel, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Zoological Garden. This popular zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the most well-known places to see in Cologne. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cologne. The bars in Cologne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • 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
  • More

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Glees and end it in the city of Frankfurt. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes a monastery, a castle, and a monument. Maria Laach Abbey is must-visit monastery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Eltz Castle, an interesting castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Deutsches Eck, an awe-inspiring monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cologne. If you’re looking for more, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is also an interesting attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Frankfurt. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Frankfurt.

Have a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Frankfurt, Lafleur shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Erno's Bistro is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Frankfurt as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Frankfurt
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Drive 3 km, 39 min

  • Iron Footbridge
  • Römerberg
  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Zeil
  • Sachsenhausen
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Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Don’t miss Zeil in Frankfurt today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Sachsenhausen, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Frankfurt.

Today’s agenda in Frankfurt includes a monument, a public square, and a zoo. Iron Footbridge is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Römerberg, a well-known public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zoo Frankfurt, a romantic zoo, also available for your discovery today.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Frankfurt offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Frankfurt offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Apfelwein Dax, 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 Ariston Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Jambo Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Cosy Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Frankfurt
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Senckenberg Museum
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Alte Oper
  • Nizza
  • Städel Museum
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Frankfurt, and meet locals along the way!

Start your day at Senckenberg Museum. This photogenic museum is a locally appreciated place to see in Frankfurt. Then, wander over to Palmengarten. If romantic sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Alte Oper. This romantic opera house is a favorite among visitors.

Frankfurt offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Nizza is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing art museum in Frankfurt.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Frankfurt. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Frankfurt that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Frankfurt to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants 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. Also, consider Zum Gemalten Haus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rote Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Belfordfrankfurt offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Frankfurt!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Frankfurt
  • Cologne
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany
  • Rheinaue
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Phantasialand
  • More

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Bonn. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Frankfurt. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Frankfurt. Next, head to Rheinaue, a notable park, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Schloss Drachenburg. This instagrammable castle offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Phantasialand adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Cologne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cologne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Limani, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bonn can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Cologne - Departure day
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  • Old Market
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cologne.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Old Market. This notable public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cologne or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at Cafe Riese Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bangkok Thai Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cologne and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Germany is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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