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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne, where will spend 3 nights.

Make time for Römerberg, a locally renowned public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Iron Footbridge, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo is one of the city’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Alte Oper. After exploring the opera house, head to the interesting Palmengarten.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 2 nights to spend in Cologne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Duisburg and Essen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Duisburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Catch Duisburg Zoo before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable museum. For a change of scene, check out Villa Hügel, known for its breathtaking features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

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!

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

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the widely recognized Phantasialand and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cologne Cathedral, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Old Market, one of the village’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Limani, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Suderman, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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.

Catch Deutsches Eck before the crowds roll in. This breathtaking monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Technik Museum Speyer, a must-visit aviation museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Speyer Cathedral, a locally renowned church.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Café Bar Goodfellas is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Heidelberg. You’ll stay in Heidelberg for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Hauptstraße, a must-see street in Heidelberg. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Neckarwiese (heidelberg) is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This mesmerizing park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Old Bridge Heidelberg, another must-visit landmark and well-known historical landmark renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Heidelberg by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This history-steeped public square is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Heidelberg experience. We also recommend visiting Heidelberg Castle, a spectacular castle.

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 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.

Dine in style at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, VINCIdue boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Essighaus. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Stuttgart are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Experience Porsche Museum, a well-known museum in the city. Then, head to Killesberg Tower and soak in the ambiance of this romantic park.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Schloßplatz. This is one of the city’s most notable history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the notable Mercedes-benz Museum.

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

Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt.

Discover the culinary delights of Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lafleur, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Erno's Bistro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering classic french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Jambo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Cosy Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!