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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Baden-Baden, Stuttgart, Munich, Karlsfeld, and Würzburg.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Düsseldorf, 1 night 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 Düsseldorf, 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 Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Olympiapark, 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 Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Baden-Baden, Stuttgart, Munich, Karlsfeld, and Würzburg, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Rheinpromenade
K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-WestfalenRheingarten (Köln)Museum LudwigCologne CathedralOld Market
Palmengarten FrankfurtStädel MuseumIron FootbridgeRömerberg
SintersteinbrunnenWilhelmaMercedes-Benz MuseumSchlossplatzJubiläumssäule
Nymphenburg PalaceDianatempelVictuals MarketMarienplatz
English GardenBMW WeltOlympiaparkSchwabing
Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder SeeWürzburger CathedralOld Main Bridge
Königsallee

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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  • Rheinpromenade
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night 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.

Düsseldorf 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 Rheinpromenade, or just 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 Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Brewery Schumacher, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Brewery im Füchschen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The ASH Düsseldorf. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Engelchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Cherie is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dusseldorf
  • Cologne
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Drive 45 km, 58 min

  • K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
  • Rheingarten (Köln)
  • Museum Ludwig
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf and Cologne, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including an art gallery, a park, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This often recommended art gallery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Rhine Garden Sculpture, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf 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 Museum Ludwig, an underrated museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cologne Cathedral and Old Market.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 194 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Städel Museum
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Römerberg
  • More

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

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Palmengarten, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Städel Museum. This often recommended art museum is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Iron Footbridge. This visually striking monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Römerberg is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Im Herzen Afrikas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gute Stute, known for its lively atmosphere. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Gleis 25 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Frankfurt
  • Stuttgart
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Drive 305 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Sintersteinbrunnen
  • Wilhelma
  • Mercedes-Benz Museum
  • Schlossplatz
  • Jubiläumssäule
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Baden-Baden and Stuttgart. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stuttgart, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at the often recommended Sintersteinbrunnen, a symbolic monument in Frankfurt. Next, go to Wilhelma.

After visiting Sintersteinbrunnen and Wilhelma, have a stroll along Frankfurt's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Mercedes-benz Museum. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience. Schloßplatz is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Jubiläumssäule, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Frankfurt.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tavern Waldhorn, a highly-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Le Théâtre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Garbe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Petit Coq, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jigger & Spoon, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Schwarz Weiß Bar 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!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Stuttgart
  • Munich
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Nymphenburg Palace
  • Dianatempel
  • Victuals Market
  • Marienplatz
  • More

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 1 vibrant destinations - Munich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Munich. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Stuttgart, including a palace, a park, a food market, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Nymphenburg Palace. This notable palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hofgarten located in Stuttgart for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Viktualienmarkt. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the food market, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Marienplatz. Visitors usually appreciate the symbolic features of this public square.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Munich. Munich 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 Munich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ginkgo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Munich tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Garçon, known for its inviting atmosphere. Zephyr Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Holy Spirit 1 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Munich
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Drive 21 km, 57 min

  • English Garden
  • BMW Welt
  • Olympiapark
  • Schwabing
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Schwabing is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Munich, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Munich, including a park and a museum. Start your day with a visit to English Garden. This extraordinary park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bmw Welt, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Munich 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 Olympiapark, a widely recognized park in the city.

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 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 Gasthaus Isarthor, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Dürnbräu offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zum Alten Markt is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Munich.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pusser's, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Ory Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Harry's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Munich
  • Dusseldorf
  • More

Drive 652 km, 7 hours 21 min

  • Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder See
  • Würzburger Cathedral
  • Old Main Bridge
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Karlsfeld and Würzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Munich today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder See. This eye-catching lake will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Wurzburg Cathedral and learn what makes this breathtaking church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Old Main Bridge.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Studio 1, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Dusseldorf - Departure day
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  • Königsallee
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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 Düsseldorf 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 Königsallee, a romantic street before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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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