One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Frankfurt, Heidelberg, and Cologne

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dortmund. 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 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several an instagrammable, a standout, a romantic, a picturesque, an awe-inspiring, and a noteworthy. Whether you decide to explore Dortmund on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. German Football Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. Rombergpark Botanical Garden is your next stop. This frequently visited botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Dortmund.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Dortmund Zoo. This instagrammable zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Casino Hohensyburg.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Gustav in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Gustav delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Lafleur, acclaimed for its delectable modern french and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Erno's Bistro, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic french and modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gute Stute offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gleis 25 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Frankfurt. You have 1 night left in Frankfurt. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a scenic, a breathtaking, a visually striking, a standout, and a symbolic. Whether you decide to explore Frankfurt on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palmengarten is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring botanical garden before continuing your journey. Alte Oper is your next stop. This locally renowned opera house is one of the best-rated sights in Frankfurt.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Römerberg. This visually striking public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Iron Footbridge and Zoo Frankfurt.

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.

As you explore more of Frankfurt, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Lohninger, a top-rated dining spot in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood for something new, try Apfelwein Dax, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ariston Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Frankfurt.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Stuttgart, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Stuttgart today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Frankfurt and set your GPS to Stuttgart. 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 2 hours 9 min. Upon reaching Stuttgart, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Porsche Museum. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Mercedes-benz Museum. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Schloßplatz. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square. Next, continue your journey to Killesberg Tower, an often recommended park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heidelberg's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Bar Goodfellas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Heidelberg. You’ll stay in Heidelberg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Heidelberg covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a park, a historical landmark, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Heidelberg Zoo. This interesting zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the idyllic wonders of Neckarwiese (heidelberg), a must-see park in the city.

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 Old Bridge Heidelberg. This locally renowned historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Heidelberg Castle, where you can take in its culturally significant features.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heidelberg's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider VINCIdue, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essighaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Destille after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Orange Cafe Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Lenox Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Speyer, Koblenz, and Brühl. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heidelberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Speyer may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Speyer, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Technik Museum Speyer, an interesting aviation museum that everyone visiting Speyer should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Deutsches Eck, a well-known monument that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Koblenz and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 2 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

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

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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 - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of an instagrammable, a romantic, a stunning, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known museum, Lindt Chocolate Museum. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Old Market. A visit to this public square is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This top-rated church is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!