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

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Photo of Cologne sunset city skyline with Cologne Cathedral and Rhine River, Cologne, Germany.
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Explore the best of Germany on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, Hohenschwangau, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Schildergasse
Cologne Rodenkirchen BridgeRheinboulevardCologne Chocolate MuseumMuseum LudwigCologne CathedralBelgisches Viertel
Palmengarten FrankfurtStädel MuseumIron FootbridgeRömerbergFrankfurt Cathedral
WilhelmaMercedes-Benz MuseumOld CastleSchlossplatz
English GardenVictuals MarketMarienplatz
Hohenschwangau CastleMuseum of the Bavarian KingsMarienbrückeNeuschwanstein Castle
BurggartenTown HallMedieval Crime MuseumPlönlein
Old Market

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
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  • Schildergasse
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Welcome to Cologne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cologne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cologne. 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at SAVOY Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Reichard. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

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 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Belgisches Viertel in Cologne is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Start your adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This worthwhile sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Rheinboulevard located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Lindt Chocolate Museum. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Museum Ludwig. Visitors usually appreciate the respected features of this museum. Next up is Cologne Cathedral, a highly recommended church.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 3

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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Palmengarten. This captivating botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Städel Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Iron Footbridge, one of the most interesting places to see in Cologne. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Römerberg. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this public square offers. Then, head to Frankfurt Cathedral, a top-rated church that adds another dimension to your 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Frankfurt's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Im Herzen Afrikas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gute Stute, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gleis 25 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 4

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.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Wilhelma. This breathtaking zoo is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Mercedes-benz Museum, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Old Castle, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Schloßplatz. This respected public square 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.

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.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Stuttgart and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Stuttgart
  • Munich
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Drive 236 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • English Garden
  • Victuals Market
  • Marienplatz
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Munich, 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 Munich. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start by visiting English Garden, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Viktualienmarkt, another must-visit landmark and spectacular food market renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Stuttgart by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Marienplatz. This majestic public square is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Stuttgart experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Little London / Bar & Grill, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ginkgo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Munich.

Continue your lively evening at Garçon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zephyr Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Holy Spirit 1 Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 6

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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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Munich, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Hohenschwangau Castle, an interesting castle in the village. Then, head to Museum Of The Bavarian Kings and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching museum.

After exploring the point of interest, visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Continue your lively evening at Pusser's, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Ory Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Harry's ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Munich. Begin your sightseeing with Castle Garden. This beloved park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Town Hall, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Munich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Medieval Crime Museum. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Suderman, a prime location for a drink.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

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Day 8

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 stunning public square before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.

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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