7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne, Neurath, Heidelberg, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Description
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, Boppard, Braubach, Lahnstein, 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 Heidelberg, 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 Cologne Zoological Garden.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Boppard, Braubach, Lahnstein, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Dortmund - Arrival day
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- Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
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Say hello to Dortmund! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dortmund for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, 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 Dortmund. 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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Alten Markt boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ringhotel Drees. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.
Keep the evening going at Vater&sohn, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Loka Lounge Dortmund, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Central Bar & More Dortmund, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dortmund
- Cologne
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Drive 104 km, 1 hour 58 min
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Old Market
- Cologne Cathedral
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating zoo, Cologne Zoological Garden. Afterward, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Old Market. This popular public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.
Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 3
- Cologne
- Neurath
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Loreley-linie port
- Stolzenfels Castle
- Marksburg
- Ruppertsklamm
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Boppard, Koblenz-Stolzenfels, Braubach, and Lahnstein, 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 Neurath. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a pier, a castle, and a hiking area. Start your day with a visit to Loreley-linie Port. This often recommended pier is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Stolzenfels Castle, which may be one of the most grand places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Marksburg, a curiosity-inducing castle in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ruppertsklamm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Neurath. Neurath 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 Neurath, 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.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 4
- Neurath
- Heidelberg
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Heidelberg Palace
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Philosophers' Way
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On day 4 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 Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Neurath promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Heidelberg Castle. This enchanting castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Heidelberger Marktplatz, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its inviting features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Old Bridge Heidelberg. This grand historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Philosophers’ Way, a beloved hiking area, and take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Café Bar Goodfellas is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Heidelberg
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 175 km, 2 hours 31 min
- Gallows Gate
- Blade Gate
- Burggarten
- German Christmas Museum
- Plönlein
- Medieval Crime Museum
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Rothenburg ob der Tauber. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Continue your journey to Castle Garden, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated German Christmas Museum. When you're finished at the museum, Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) awaits your visit. This public square is a stunning highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a museum - the increasingly popular Medieval Crime Museum.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's best restaurants.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 6
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Dortmund
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Drive 571 km, 6 hours 48 min
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Fleischbrücke (Nürnberg)
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nuremberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout museum before continuing your journey. Nuremberg Castle is your next stop. This captivating castle is one of the best-rated sights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
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 Fleisch Bridge. This culturally significant monument is a sight to behold.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strobels Dortmund, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lord. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
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 serene botanical garden before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
If you're eager to try something different, consider ALEX Dortmund, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
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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