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, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Frankfurt are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Experience Römerberg, a notable public square in the city. Then, head to Iron Footbridge and soak in the ambiance of this romantic monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Frankfurt, and when you are ready for more, go to Zoo Frankfurt. This is one of the city’s most interesting awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the well-known Alte Oper. Not far away, you'll also find Palmengarten. This botanical garden is a mesmerizing highlight in Frankfurt.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 52 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Duisburg Zoo, a notable zoo that everyone visiting Duisburg should see. Next, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This picture-perfect park is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Duisburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Essen. This drive usually takes around 29 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a locally renowned museum known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Villa Hügel, an often recommended 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 a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Brühl and Cologne. With 1 night to stay in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Don’t miss Schildergasse today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the village’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Cologne Cathedral is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Old Market, a notable public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Brühl is Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Suderman, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Koblenz and Speyer. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Deutsches Eck, a captivating monument in Koblenz. Explore its remarkable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Speyer’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Koblenz behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. Speyer welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Technik Museum Speyer and explore the stunning features. Next, make your way to Speyer Cathedral, another highlight in Speyer.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heidelberg. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Heidelberg is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Heidelberg.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining spot in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heidelberg.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sonder Bar (pinte) provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in 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 fantastic place you can explore today in Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Start your day at Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This stunning park is a worthwhile place to see in Heidelberg. Then, wander over to Old Bridge Heidelberg. If romantic sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Heidelberger Marktplatz. This visually striking public square is a favorite among visitors.

Heidelberg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Heidelberg Castle is an impressive spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante Santa Lucia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? VINCIdue offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Essighaus. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Destille, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Orange Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Lenox Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Stuttgart. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stuttgart. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Porsche Museum. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Killesberg Tower. This curiosity-inducing park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Schloßplatz. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square. Next, take your journey to Mercedes-benz Museum, an interesting museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Barkello Café Bar Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Cosy Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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