Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne
Description
Included
Description
Explore Germany and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Frankfurt, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, Keldung, and Koblenz. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Germany at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Frankfurt, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, Keldung, and Koblenz. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Frankfurt and 2 nights in Cologne. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Germany.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Germany. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Frankfurt, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Germany and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Germany with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Germany.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Germany. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Phantasialand. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cologne Cathedral.
Traveling leisurely through Germany means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Lindt Chocolate Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Deutsches Eck. Get close to the spectacular Eltz Castle and the wonderful Römerberg. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Germany's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Germany.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Germany. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Germany's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Germany.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Germany. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Germany. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Germany and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Frankfurt - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Frankfurt and begin your adventure in Germany.
Frankfurt is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Im Herzen Afrikas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Frankfurt tonight.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Frankfurt.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gute Stute, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Gleis 25 offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany. Enjoy your first taste of Frankfurt as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Frankfurt
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Drive 4 km, 39 min
- Zoo Frankfurt
- Frankfurt Cathedral
- Römerberg
- Iron Footbridge
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Frankfurt, including a zoo, a church, a public square, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Zoo Frankfurt. This interesting zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Frankfurt Cathedral located in Frankfurt for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Römerberg. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This monument has a history-steeped appeal.
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 the food culture in Frankfurt offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Frankfurt. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Barkello Café Bar Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Cosy Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.
Day 3
- Frankfurt
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Senckenberg Museum
- Palmengarten Frankfurt
- Alte Oper
- Nizza
- Städel Museum
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt!
Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Senckenberg Museum, a worthwhile museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Palmengarten, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Alte Oper. This opera house is one of the city’s most captivating spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Nizza. After exploring the park, head to the curiosity-inducing Städel Museum. This art museum will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Frankfurt, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Frankfurt and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Continue your lively evening at Rote Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Belfordfrankfurt ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!
Day 4
- Frankfurt
- Heisterbacherrott
- Königswinter
- Brühl
- Cologne
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Siebengebirge
- Schloss Drachenburg
- Brühl Castle
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Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Heisterbacherrott and end it in the village of Brühl. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Frankfurt, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Heisterbacherrott may take around 1 hour 42 min. Upon your arrival in Heisterbacherrott, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Siebengebirge, a locally appreciated mountain range that draws attention for its romantic features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Schloss Drachenburg, a captivating castle that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Königswinter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Take your self-guided tour to Brühl Castle, an up-and-coming castle that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Cologne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
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.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cologne!
Day 5
- Cologne
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Drive 2 km, 36 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Old Market
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
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On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, 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 Cologne, and meet locals along the way!
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral, a picture-perfect church in Cologne. Next, go to Old Market.
After visiting Cologne Cathedral and Old Market, take time to explore Cologne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience.
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 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 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.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cologne!
Day 6
- Cologne
- Keldung
- Koblenz
- Frankfurt
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Drive 279 km, 4 hours 23 min
- Maria Laach Abbey
- Eltz Castle
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Glees and drive in the direction of the village of Keldung for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Frankfurt, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Glees and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Glees beckons with new experiences!
Maria Laach Abbey is a worthwhile monastery we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Set your GPS to Keldung and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Keldung beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to Eltz Castle, a popular castle that everyone visiting Keldung should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 48 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Deutsches Eck, a captivating monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Frankfurt. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Frankfurt, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, a top-rated dining spot in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Namaste India. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Frankfurt.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Frankfurt’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!
Day 7
- Frankfurt - Departure day
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Frankfurt.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Frankfurt's best shopping area, Skyline Plaza. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Frankfurt or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Frankfurt and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Germany is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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