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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Düsseldorf and Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Check out the locally appreciated art gallery, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

After soaking in Düsseldorf’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 42 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is an up-and-coming sightseeing destination we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by Cologne Cathedral, a grand church.

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.

Cologne 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 Cologne.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, where you'll spend 3 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Frankfurt may take around 2 hours 2 min. Upon your arrival in Frankfurt, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Frankfurt is Palmengarten, a captivating botanical garden that draws attention for its romantic features.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Iron Footbridge, a popular monument that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Goethe House, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Römerberg, a respected public square and the perfect final attraction in Frankfurt.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Im Herzen Afrikas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Frankfurt.

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.

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.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Frankfurt, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau.

When you’ve had your share of Frankfurt, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Baden-Baden. Your travel time is around 2 hours 2 min.

Savor the day by heading to Trinkhalle, an up-and-coming museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Freiburg im Breisgau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Baden-Baden behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. Freiburg im Breisgau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Martin's Gate, an intriguing monument that everyone visiting Freiburg im Breisgau should see. Next, head to Bertoldsbrunnen. This respected public square is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Augustiner Museum, a heritage-rich museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Freiburger Münsterbauverein is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned church before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Frankfurt.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Restaurant Lohninger, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Apfelwein Dax boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ariston Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Jambo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Cosy Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Frankfurt, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Frankfurt 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 1 hour 59 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 Gallows Gate, a worthwhile 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.

When you’re ready, continue to Castle Garden, a frequently visited park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on German Christmas Museum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Medieval Crime Museum, a photogenic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Frankfurt and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Frankfurt's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining spot in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood for something new, try Chicago Meatpackers, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Gemalten Haus. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Frankfurt.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rote Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Belfordfrankfurt is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Würzburg and Frankfurt are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Alte Brücke is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This symbolic historical landmark is sure to impress.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Würzburg.

Marienberg Fortress is a captivating castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Old Main Bridge, a history-steeped historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Würzburg Residence, an enchanting palace.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Coffee Fellows. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!