Relaxed 7-Day Germany Road Trip Starting from Stuttgart to Karlsruhe

Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Stuttgart, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Stuttgart and begin your adventure in Germany.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Schloßplatz. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,914 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Stuttgart. 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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Stuttgart.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Tavern Waldhorn, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Le Théâtre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Wirtshaus Garbe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stuttgart.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Stuttgart and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at Le Petit Coq, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Jigger & Spoon, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Schwarz Weiß 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 Stuttgart as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Stuttgart and visit amazing attractions in Rotenberg, and Stuttgart destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Stuttgart. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Make Mercedes-benz Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Stuttgart. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 43,234 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This automobile museum attracts 876,109 visitors every year.

Wilhelma is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This zoo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 33,531 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Porsche Museum. This automobile museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 visitors.

Set your GPS to Rotenberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rotenberg beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Sepulchral Chapel On Württemberg Hill is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,178 visitors.

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

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Der Zauberlehrling, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Speisemeisterei is one of the best restaurants for creative, and innovative cuisine in Stuttgart. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Ritzi Gourmet. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative french, and modern cuisine in the city.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Stuttgart and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Si-centrum Stuttgart, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Mata Hari, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mocha Espresso & Wine provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 3 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 city of Stuttgart and end it in the city of Karlsruhe. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 3 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.

Make Staatsgalerie Stuttgart your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,708 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Stuttgart Tv Tower. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,754 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Castle Solitude is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,254 visitors.

Ludwigsburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stuttgart behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Ludwigsburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Ludwigsburg Residential Palace your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,061 reviews.

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

Kick off the day at Monrepos Lakeside Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,528 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Karlsruhe. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, sein is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at TAWA YAMA FINE. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern, and international cuisine in the city.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Lahr/Schwarzwald, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Lahr/Schwarzwald will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Germany.

After soaking in Karlsruhe’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lahr/Schwarzwald. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Lahr/Schwarzwald, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Lahr Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,756 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lahr/Schwarzwald, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rust. This drive usually takes around 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Europa-park. This amusement park gets 5,700,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 166,036 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Silver Star. This hypercoaster has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 7,899 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at kap, an iconic dining spot in Karlsruhe. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Enchilada Karlsruhe, a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Badisch Brauhaus, a hidden gem nestled in Karlsruhe. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Karlsruhe. The bars in Karlsruhe make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Carlos Cocktailbar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Ubu provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 5 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!

Journey into the unknown at Marktplatz, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,876 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Friedrichsplatz is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,500 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Karlsruhe is Schlossgarten. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,162 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Karlsruhe offers an experience you will remember.

Karlsruhe Botanical Garden is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Karlsruhe. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,232 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,946 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Karlsruhe, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Germany.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Karlsruhe 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 Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, an iconic dining spot in Karlsruhe. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Osteria Karlsruhe, a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Palaver, a hidden gem nestled in Karlsruhe. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Santo’s Cocktailbar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Minibar Karlsruhe. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Set your GPS to Sinsheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sinsheim beckons with new experiences!

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

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sinsheim, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schwetzingen may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Schwetzingen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Schwetzingen Palace. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,054 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bad Wildbad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bad Wildbad beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald. This canopy walkway is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,991 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Stuttgart in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Wielandshöhe, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Carls Brauhaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Reboots, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Barbados Stuttgart provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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 Stuttgart.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Stuttgart's best shopping area. 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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Stuttgart is the remarkable Killesberg Tower. This observation tower and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,345 visitors.

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 Stuttgart or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Paulaner am alten Postplatz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Stuttgart 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.