One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Belgisches Viertel. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. Next on your list is Rheinboulevard, another must-visit landmark and underrated boardwalk renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Museum Ludwig, a curiosity-inducing museum. Nearby, you'll also find Cologne Cathedral, ready to add charm to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Frankfurt, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Frankfurt may take around 2 hours 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Frankfurt, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Palmengarten, a well-known botanical garden that everyone visiting Frankfurt should see. Next, head to Städel Museum.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Iron Footbridge, a romantic monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Römerberg is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this well-known public square before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Frankfurt Cathedral, a picture-perfect church and a top attraction in the city.

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 a delicious meal at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Im Herzen Afrikas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Munich, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Munich and set your GPS to Hohenschwangau. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Upon reaching Hohenschwangau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hohenschwangau is Hohenschwangau Castle, a notable castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Museum Of The Bavarian Kings, a historic museum that stands out in the village.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Marienbrücke, a worthwhile point of interest that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Neuschwanstein Castle, a nearby castle, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gasthaus Isarthor, a highly-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zum Dürnbräu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Alten Markt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pusser's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Ory Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Harry's is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Munich and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.