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

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!

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Belgisches Viertel. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Let Cologne Zoological Garden set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking zoo before continuing your journey. Cologne Cathedral is your next stop. This top-rated church is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum is a sight to behold.

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

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 3 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Germany, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Your adventure in Cologne is only getting started when you visit Maria Laach Abbey, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eltz Castle. This interesting castle is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Deutsches Eck. This picture-perfect monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is also worth visiting.

You'll be staying in Frankfurt on this laid-back road trip through Germany. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 Frankfurt, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Lafleur, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Frankfurt is Erno's Bistro, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious classic french and modern menu.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Frankfurt and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gute Stute. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gleis 25, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Zeil, a street that captures the true essence of Frankfurt. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Sachsenhausen, a neighborhood offering a different perspective on Frankfurt.

No visit to Frankfurt is complete without Iron Footbridge. This captivating monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Römerberg, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Frankfurt, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zoo Frankfurt. This popular zoo is a traveler-favorite.

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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Lohninger, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Apfelwein Dax? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ariston Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Frankfurt.

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 Frankfurt. The bars in Frankfurt make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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!

Your adventure in Frankfurt is only getting started when you visit Senckenberg Museum, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Palmengarten. This captivating botanical garden is known for its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Frankfurt's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Alte Oper. This stunning opera house offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Nizza is also worth visiting, along with Städel Museum. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Frankfurt has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Zu den 12 Aposteln, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chicago Meatpackers, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Gemalten Haus, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rote Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Belfordfrankfurt is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Make a stop at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This well-known museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Rheinaue located in Frankfurt for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Schloss Drachenburg. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Phantasialand. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this amusement park.

In Cologne, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Germany.

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 Cologne.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cologne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!