7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling north to Frankfurt, Cologne, and Heidelberg

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Stuttgart are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

To truly experience Stuttgart, make sure to drop by Stuttgart Tv Tower. This notable observation deck is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mercedes-benz Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Wilhelma, one of the most well-known places to see in Stuttgart. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Porsche Museum. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this museum offers.

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

Frankfurt is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Frankfurt.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Lafleur, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Frankfurt is Erno's Bistro, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious classic french and modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gute Stute, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gleis 25 is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 3 destinations, including Frankfurt, Königswinter, and Brühl. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Römerberg is must-visit public square and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Iron Footbridge, an interesting monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Palmengarten, a mesmerizing botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

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 1 hour 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Königswinter is Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

When you’ve had your share of Königswinter, 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 42 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Cologne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Duisburg and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Visiting Cologne Cathedral is always a good idea. This impressive church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Lindt Chocolate Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park in Duisburg. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Koblenz and Speyer. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg, where will spend 1 night.

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 Koblenz. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Deutsches Eck. This captivating monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Speyer. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive in Speyer, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Technik Museum Speyer, a captivating aviation museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining spot in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heidelberg.

Continue your lively evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Bar Goodfellas ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Stuttgart, where you'll spend 1 night.

Neckarwiese (heidelberg) brings Heidelberg's character to life. This stunning park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Old Bridge Heidelberg, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Heidelberger Marktplatz, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Heidelberg Castle. This romantic castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart's best restaurants.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Stuttgart by reserving a table at Der Zauberlehrling. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Speisemeisterei, recognized for its delicious creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Ritzi Gourmet, a local favorite known for its delightful creative french and modern cuisine in Stuttgart. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for creative french and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Si-centrum Stuttgart after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mata Hari, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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