7-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg, and Stuttgart and surrounding area

Welcome to Karlsruhe, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Karlsruhe's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Karlsruhe 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 Schlossgarten or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Karlsruhe. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zum Kleinen Ketterer beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Karlsruhe tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Phono Craftbeer Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Electric Eel for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Karlsruhe. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this natural history museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,255 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,946 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

Zkm | Center For Art And Media Karlsruhe is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This research institute has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,781 visitors.

When you’re finished at Zkm | Center For Art And Media Karlsruhe, the perfect next stop is Günther-klotz-anlage. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,134 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Karlsruhe. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Karlsruhe by booking a table at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional regional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to sein, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit TAWA YAMA FINE, a local gem known for its delightful modern, and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Carlos Cocktailbar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Ubu, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rust. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rust. This car ride takes around 1 hour 10 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Silver Star. This hypercoaster is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 7,899 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Europa-park. This amusement park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 166,036 reviews. Usually, around 5,700,000 people visit Europa-park every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Grimm's Enchanted Forest. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 115 visitors.

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 Heidelberg. Heidelberg 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Bar Goodfellas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg, Ludwigsburg, and Freiberg am Neckar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stuttgart, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,059 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,612 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Heidelberg Castle. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ludwigsburg, 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 Heidelberg to Ludwigsburg may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ludwigsburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ludwigsburg Residential Palace. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,061 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Stuttgart, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Stuttgart, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Der Zauberlehrling in Stuttgart by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Der Zauberlehrling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Speisemeisterei, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative, and innovative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Ritzi Gourmet, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative french, and modern menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Petit Coq, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Jigger & Spoon offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stuttgart. Schwarz Weiß Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Stuttgart has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Stuttgart by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Mercedes-benz Museum. This popular automobile museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 43,234 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 876,109 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Stuttgart Tv Tower. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,754 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Wilhelma. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 33,531 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Killesberg Tower. This observation tower and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,345 local and international travelers.

You can learn more about Stuttgart today by going on a tour. Stuttgart offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Riedsee. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Stuttgart tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Si-centrum Stuttgart, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mata Hari is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Stuttgart, Sinsheim, and Schwetzingen, 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 1 night.

Make Schloßplatz your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,914 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Castle Solitude. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,254 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Porsche Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This automobile museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sinsheim. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This extraordinary technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,268 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a highly-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Osteria Karlsruhe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Palaver. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Santo’s Cocktailbar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Minibar Karlsruhe also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Karlsruhe’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marktplatz. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,876 visitors.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!