Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Stuttgart
Description
Included
Description
Uncover the beauty of Germany on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Karlsruhe, Stuttgart, Rotenberg, Rust, Lahr/Schwarzwald, and Oberkirch. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
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 Karlsruhe, Stuttgart, Rotenberg, Rust, Lahr/Schwarzwald, and Oberkirch. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Karlsruhe and 3 nights in Stuttgart. 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 Karlsruhe, 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 Mercedes-benz Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Schloßplatz.
Traveling leisurely through Germany means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Wilhelma. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Porsche Museum. Get close to the spectacular Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe and the wonderful Stuttgart Tv Tower. 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
- Karlsruhe - Arrival day
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- Kaiserstraße
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Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Karlsruhe, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Karlsruhe and begin your adventure in Germany.
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 Kaiserstraße, a must-see street, and 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Karlsruhe at Zum Kleinen Ketterer, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Karlsruhe tonight.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Karlsruhe and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Keep the evening going at Phono Craftbeer Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Electric Eel, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jean-claude Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
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 Karlsruhe as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Karlsruhe
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Drive 29 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Günther-Klotz-Anlage
- ZKM Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe
- Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe
- Panorama terrace Turmberg
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On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Karlsruhe, 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 Karlsruhe, and meet locals along the way!
Begin your adventure at Günther-klotz-anlage. This is an intriguing park you should not miss. Another must-see is Zkm | Center For Art And Media Karlsruhe, an often recommended research institute in Karlsruhe.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Panorama Terrace Turmberg, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions.
Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
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 Karlsruhe.
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.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Karlsruhe. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Carlos Cocktailbar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Ubu is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!
Day 3
- Karlsruhe
- Stuttgart
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Drive 78 km, 1 hour 34 min
- State Museum of Natural History, Karlsruhe
- Friedrichsplatz
- Marktplatz
- State Museum of Baden
- Karlsruhe Botanical Garden
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Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 3 nights.
Start by visiting State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Friedrichsplatz, another must-visit landmark and often recommended public square renowned for its historic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Karlsruhe by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Marktplatz. This culturally significant public square is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Karlsruhe experience. We also recommend visiting State Museum Of Baden, an intriguing museum. Nearby, you'll also find Karlsruhe Botanical Garden, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Stuttgart. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Stuttgart, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Start your culinary exploration in Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative 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 Ritzi Gourmet, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Stuttgart. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Petit Coq after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Jigger & Spoon, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Stuttgart as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!
Day 4
- Stuttgart
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Drive 39 km, 1 hour 26 min
- Sepulchral Chapel on Württemberg hill
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Wilhelma
- Stuttgart TV Tower
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Stuttgart will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Germany.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Stuttgart, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Sepulchral Chapel On Württemberg Hill, a locally appreciated monument in the village. Then, head to Mercedes-benz Museum and soak in the ambiance of this stunning museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Stuttgart, and when you are ready for more, go to Wilhelma. This is one of the village’s most popular picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the captivating Stuttgart Tv Tower.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Stuttgart.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Stuttgart has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Dine in style at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Riedsee. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Stuttgart.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Stuttgart.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Si-centrum Stuttgart, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Mata Hari. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mocha Espresso & Wine, another top-rated place in the area.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 5
- Stuttgart
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Castle Solitude
- Nunos porsche Museum
- Killesberg Park
- Schlossplatz
- Staatsgalerie Stuttgart
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Stuttgart. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart!
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Stuttgart. Begin your sightseeing with Castle Solitude. This increasingly popular castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Porsche Museum, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Stuttgart, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Killesberg Tower. This beloved park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Schloßplatz, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Staatsgalerie Stuttgart is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Stuttgart. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart to find the best options for you!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Stuttgart has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Make sure to reserve a table at Wielandshöhe, an iconic dining spot in Stuttgart. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar, a popular restaurant in Stuttgart. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Carls Brauhaus, a hidden gem nestled in Stuttgart. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Reboots is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Barbados Stuttgart. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!
Day 6
- Stuttgart
- Karlsruhe
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Drive 307 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Silver Star
- Grimm's Enchanted Forest
- Lahr Park
- Schauenburg Castle
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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 village of Rust and drive in the direction of the town of Lahr/Schwarzwald for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Karlsruhe, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Stuttgart, including an amusement park, a park, and a castle. Start your adventure at Silver Star. This underrated amusement park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Grimm's Enchanted Forest located in Stuttgart for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Lahr Park. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Schauenburg Castle. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this castle.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Karlsruhe. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring the food culture in Karlsruhe 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.
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 satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Karlsruhe and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Santo’s Cocktailbar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Minibar Karlsruhe is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!
Day 7
- Karlsruhe - Departure day
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- Schlossgarten
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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 Karlsruhe.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Karlsruhe’s popular marketplace, Ettlinger Tor. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Schlossgarten, a visually striking park before you head out.
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 Karlsruhe or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood for something new, try bratar Burger Grill Bar | Karlsruhe, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Karlsruhe 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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