One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cologne, 1 night in Frankfurt, 1 night in Stuttgart, and 2 nights in Munich. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cologne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Marienplatz and Neuschwanstein Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Cologne Cathedral, learn more about the unique English Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Viktualienmarkt.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, Hohenschwangau, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
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Day 1
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Schildergasse
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Cologne 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 Schildergasse, 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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cologne. 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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Rheinboulevard
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Museum Ludwig
- Cologne Cathedral
- Belgisches Viertel
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne 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.
Start by visiting Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. 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 eye-catching museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Museum Ludwig, a frequently visited 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 activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Visit Hohe Straße in Cologne for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and luxurious stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Hohe Straße has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 3
- Cologne
- Frankfurt
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Drive 194 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Palmengarten Frankfurt
- Städel Museum
- Iron Footbridge
- Römerberg
- Frankfurt Cathedral
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Palmengarten. This notable botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This well-known monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Römerberg, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Frankfurt Cathedral. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Im Herzen Afrikas, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gute Stute, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gleis 25. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Frankfurt
- Stuttgart
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Drive 213 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Wilhelma
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Old Castle
- Schlossplatz
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Stuttgart. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Frankfurt, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Wilhelma, an interesting zoo in the city. Then, head to Mercedes-benz Museum and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Frankfurt, and when you are ready for more, go to Old Castle. This is one of the city’s most underrated respected spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the notable Schloßplatz.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stuttgart. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stuttgart. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tavern Waldhorn, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café Le Théâtre offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Wirtshaus Garbe. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stuttgart.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Stuttgart
- Munich
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Drive 236 km, 2 hours 50 min
- English Garden
- Victuals Market
- Marienplatz
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Munich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Stuttgart, including a park, a food market, and a public square. Start your day with a visit to English Garden. This famous park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Viktualienmarkt, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Stuttgart on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Marienplatz, a world-famous public square in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Munich, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Munich, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Little London / Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Munich at Ginkgo, 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 Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Garçon, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Zephyr Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 6
- Munich
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Drive 253 km, 4 hours 23 min
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Museum of the Bavarian Kings
- Marienbrücke
- Neuschwanstein Castle
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Munich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Munich allows for both. Start by heading to Hohenschwangau Castle. This notable castle provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Museum Of The Bavarian Kings, a picture-perfect museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Marienbrücke, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the impressive Neuschwanstein Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Munich and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Munich. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zum Dürnbräu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Alten Markt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pusser's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Ory Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Harry's also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 7
- Munich
- Cologne
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Drive 613 km, 6 hours 48 min
- Burggarten
- Town Hall
- Medieval Crime Museum
- Plönlein
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Rothenburg ob der Tauber. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Munich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a city hall, a museum, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Castle Garden and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Town Hall, an eye-catching city hall that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Medieval Crime Museum, one of the town’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber).
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Suderman, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 8
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Old Market
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Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Old Market, a visually striking public square before you head out.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne's best shopping area, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel). Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bangkok Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!
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