7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne, Neurath, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Cologne, Bornich, Braubach, Biebernheim, Neurath, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Nuremberg.

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 Dortmund, 1 night in Cologne, 1 night in Neurath, 1 night in Pleikartsförster Hof, and 1 night in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. 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 Dortmund, 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 Nuremberg Castle, learn more about the unique Lindt Chocolate Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Westfalenpark.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bornich, Braubach, Biebernheim, Neurath, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Nuremberg, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Westfalenpark
RheinparkCologne Chocolate MuseumRheingarten (Köln)Cologne CathedralOld Market
Aussicht SpitznackMarksburgStolzenfels CastleRheinfels Castle
Neckarwiese (Heidelberg)Philosophers' WayOld Bridge HeidelbergHeidelberger MarktplatzHeidelberg Palace
Gallows GatePlönleinMedieval Crime MuseumGerman Christmas MuseumBurggartenBlade GateTown Hall
Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally GroundsImperial Castle of NurembergSchöner Brunnen
Rombergpark Botanical Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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Welcome to Dortmund, 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 immersing yourself in Dortmund's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dortmund 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 Westfalenpark, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dortmund. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zum Alten Markt, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ringhotel Drees. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vater&sohn, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Loka Lounge Dortmund is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
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Drive 99 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Rheinpark
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Rheingarten (Köln)
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dortmund, including a park, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Rheinpark. This up-and-coming park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dortmund 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 Rhine Garden Sculpture, an up-and-coming park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cologne Cathedral and Old Market.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Neurath
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Aussicht Spitznack
  • Marksburg
  • Stolzenfels Castle
  • Rheinfels Castle
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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 vibrant destinations - Bornich, Braubach, Koblenz-Stolzenfels, and Biebernheim. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Neurath. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an observation deck and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Aussicht Spitznack and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Marksburg, a standout castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Stolzenfels Castle, one of the village’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Rheinfels Castle.

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

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

Say good night to Neurath and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Neurath
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Drive 130 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Neckarwiese (Heidelberg)
  • Philosophers' Way
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • Heidelberger Marktplatz
  • Heidelberg Palace
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pleikartsförster Hof, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Neurath. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a hiking area, a historical landmark, a public square, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This is a worthwhile park you should not miss. Another must-see is Philosophers’ Way, an intriguing hiking area in Neurath.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Heidelberger Marktplatz, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Heidelberg Castle, a history-steeped place of interest in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pleikartsförster Hof. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the hamlet.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Gallows Gate
  • Plönlein
  • Medieval Crime Museum
  • German Christmas Museum
  • Burggarten
  • Blade Gate
  • Town Hall
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Gallows Gate is must-visit sightseeing destination and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), an increasingly popular public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Medieval Crime Museum, a historic 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 Pleikartsförster Hof. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile German Christmas Museum. If you’re looking for more, Castle Garden is also an up-and-coming attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber
  • Dortmund
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Drive 550 km, 6 hours 39 min

  • Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
  • Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
  • Schöner Brunnen
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nuremberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most well-known places to visit in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Next, head to Nuremberg Castle, a popular castle, known for its picture-perfect 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 Schöner Brunnen. This breathtaking monument is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund 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, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dortmund’s shopping center, the lively Westenhellweg. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. Take one last moment to soak in Germany, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.

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

Savor the flavors at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALEX Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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!

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