One-Week Germany Road Trip from Düsseldorf traveling south to Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, and Heidelberg

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 Hofgarten or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Düsseldorf. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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 Brewery Schumacher, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Brewery im Füchschen, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The ASH Düsseldorf, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Engelchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Düsseldorf. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marktplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 923 visitors.

Burgplatz is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,559 visitors.

Rheinpromenade is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,033 visitors.

Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,015 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Schloss Benrath. This park has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,705 travelers.

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 Frankfurt. Frankfurt 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 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Frankfurt by booking a table at Lafleur. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french, and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Gustav, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Seven Swans, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing vegan, and creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Gute Stute after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Gleis 25 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 3 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 Frankfurt. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Römerberg. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,968 visitors.

Iron Footbridge is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,403 travelers.

Frankfurt is also the home of Zoo Frankfurt. Around 22,905 people have rated this zoo an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Alte Oper. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 13,602 reviews, a visit to this concert hall is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Frankfurt is also your chance to admire Palmengarten. This must-visit botanical garden enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Stuttgart, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Der Zauberlehrling, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Speisemeisterei is one of the best restaurants for creative, and innovative cuisine in Stuttgart. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Ritzi Gourmet. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative french, and modern cuisine in the city.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Stuttgart. 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.

Drop by the renowned Schloßplatz. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,914 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Porsche Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 visitors, this automobile museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Wilhelma. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 33,531 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Mercedes-benz Museum, drawing over 876,109 yearly visitors. This automobile museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 43,234 local and international travelers.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Munich by securing a table at Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative, and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Atelier, famous for its scrumptious creative french dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover EssZimmer, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french, and creative cuisine in Munich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french, and creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Garçon is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Zephyr Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Holy Spirit 1 Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Munich. You have 1 night left in Munich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Stachus. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,328 visitors.

Olympiapark is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This olympic park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 69,929 travelers.

Munich is also the home of Bmw Welt. This music venue gets more than 3,000,000 visitors on an annual basis. Around 32,637 people have rated this music venue an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Bmw Museum, which hosts up to 250,000 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 36,183 reviews, a visit to this automobile museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Munich is also your chance to admire English Garden. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,807 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Munich has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Munich offers and add your favorites to your Germany travel package below.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top-rated dining spot in Munich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zum Dürnbräu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Alten Markt. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Munich.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pusser's, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Ory Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Harry's provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Munich, and Pforzheim. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Marienplatz. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 119,529 reviews.

Next up is Viktualienmarkt. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,600 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Nymphenburg Palace. This summer residence has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 31,669 reviews.

After soaking in Munich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pforzheim. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 41 min. When you arrive in Pforzheim, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Gasometer Pforzheim. This popular architectural structure has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,778 visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Heidelberg, 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.

Savor the flavors at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Café Bar Goodfellas, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 visitors. Each year, around 1,750,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brühl and set your GPS to Cologne. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Cologne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Old Market. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. Up to 5,000,000 people visit this place of interest annually.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Düsseldorf, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional japanese, and sushi menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Studio 1, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sakura Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Engel Rockbar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf is a great place to start. This well is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,034 visitors.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Konditorei Heinemann, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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!