One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne and Heidelberg and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Römerberg. This notable public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Iron Footbridge, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Zoo Frankfurt, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Frankfurt. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Alte Oper. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this opera house offers. Then, head to Palmengarten, a top-rated botanical garden 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 Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Duisburg and Essen.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a zoo, a park, and a museum. Start your adventure at Duisburg Zoo. This notable zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Villa Hügel. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this museum.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Brühl and Cologne. You still have 1 night left in Cologne.

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Brühl. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Brühl-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Phantasialand. This impressive amusement park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Cologne Cathedral, a stunning church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Old Market, a popular public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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 Limani, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. 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 Suderman, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz and Speyer. 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 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Deutsches Eck. This notable monument is a culturally significant place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Technik Museum Speyer, a breathtaking aviation museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Speyer Cathedral. This locally renowned church offers a historic encounter with Cologne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Heidelberg. You have 1 night left in Heidelberg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Hauptstraße is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Heidelberg. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heidelberg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Neckarwiese (heidelberg) is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Heidelberg. Next, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg, a captivating historical landmark, known for its grand features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This respected public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Heidelberg Castle. Visit these for an interesting touch 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, VINCIdue offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Essighaus is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Destille offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Lenox Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heidelberg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Porsche Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Heidelberg. Next, head to Killesberg Tower, a frequently visited park, known for its serene features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Schloßplatz. This history-steeped public square is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Mercedes-benz Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Lafleur, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Erno's Bistro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jambo Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Cosy Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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