7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne and Karlsruhe and surrounding area

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Frankfurt covers several incredible sights, including a city hall, a public square, a monument, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Römer. This intriguing city hall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Römerberg, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This well-known monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Zoo Frankfurt, where you can take in its breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Palmengarten. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

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

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Old Market, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Rhine Garden Sculpture. This park is one of the village’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Lindt Chocolate Museum.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brühl. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Phantasialand, a famous amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Glees and Speyer, 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 Karlsruhe. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Glees, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Glees may take around 1 hour 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Glees, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Maria Laach Abbey. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glees and set your GPS to Speyer. 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 2 hours 1 min. Upon reaching Speyer, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Technik Museum Speyer, an interesting aviation museum in Speyer. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Speyer Cathedral. This popular church is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Karlsruhe, 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Karlsruhe by securing a reservation at Bistro Margarete. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit sein, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover TAWA YAMA FINE, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Phono Craftbeer Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Electric Eel, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Karlsruhe, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

After soaking in Karlsruhe’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stuttgart. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Stuttgart, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Mercedes-benz Museum, a well-known museum known for its breathtaking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Wilhelma, a notable zoo that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Schloßplatz and uncover the details of this romantic public square. Make sure to also explore Porsche Museum, a locally renowned museum that offers a unique experience.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Karlsruhe's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at kap, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Enchilada Karlsruhe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Badisch Brauhaus. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Karlsruhe.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Carlos Cocktailbar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Ubu. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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

Today's adventure in Heidelberg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Karlsruhe, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Heidelberg. This drive usually takes around 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Heidelberg Castle, an impressive castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Heidelberger Marktplatz, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings. Next, explore Heidelberg Zoo, yet another notable place to see in the area. After the zoo, make time to go to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This symbolic historical landmark is well worthwhile the visit.

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

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lafleur, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Erno's Bistro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering classic french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!