One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Munich, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Cologne and surrounding area

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Karlsruhe, 1 night in Munich, 1 night in Nuremberg, 1 night in Frankfurt, and 1 night in Cologne. 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 Karlsruhe, 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 Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Karlsruhe, Stuttgart, Munich, Nuremberg, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Brühl, Cologne, and Speyer, 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
Schlossgarten
State Museum of Natural History, KarlsruheZoological Gardens KarlsruheZKM Center for Art and Media KarlsruheGünther-Klotz-AnlageSchlossgarten
Nunos porsche MuseumKillesberg ParkSchlossplatzMercedes-Benz MuseumSchlossgarten
MarienplatzVictuals MarketEnglish GardenBMW WeltOlympiapark
Schöner BrunnenImperial Castle of NurembergHeidelberg PalaceOld Bridge Heidelberg
RömerbergIron FootbridgeZoo FrankfurtPalmengarten FrankfurtPhantasialand
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumTechnic Museum Speyer
MarktplatzSchlossgarten

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Day 1

Day 1 – Karlsruhe - arrival day

  • Karlsruhe - Arrival day
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  • Schlossgarten
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Welcome to Karlsruhe, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Karlsruhe's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Karlsruhe 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 Schlossgarten 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 Karlsruhe. 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 Karlsruhe. 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 a delicious dinner at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zum Kleinen Ketterer offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Karlsruhe.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Phono Craftbeer Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Electric Eel is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Karlsruhe

  • Karlsruhe
  • More

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • State Museum of Natural History, Karlsruhe
  • Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe
  • ZKM Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe
  • Günther-Klotz-Anlage
  • Schlossgarten
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Karlsruhe has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Karlsruhe by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several an instagrammable, a scenic, an enchanting, and a charming. Whether you decide to explore Karlsruhe on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe is your next stop. This locally renowned zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Karlsruhe.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Zkm | Center For Art And Media Karlsruhe. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Günther-klotz-anlage.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Karlsruhe by reserving a table at Bistro Margarete. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. For a different taste experience, head to sein, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Carlos Cocktailbar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Ubu for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Karlsruhe, Stuttgart, and Munich

  • Karlsruhe
  • Stuttgart
  • Munich
  • More

Drive 320 km, 4 hours 11 min

  • Nunos porsche Museum
  • Killesberg Park
  • Schlossplatz
  • Mercedes-Benz Museum
  • Schlossgarten
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Stuttgart, 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 Munich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Karlsruhe, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stuttgart may take around 56 min. Upon your arrival in Stuttgart, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Porsche Museum, a notable museum that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Killesberg Tower, a mesmerizing park that stands out in the city. Next, visit Schloßplatz, a popular public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Mercedes-benz Museum, a nearby museum, which is highly recommended by other 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 Munich. Munich 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 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.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Munich and Nuremberg

  • Munich
  • Nuremberg
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • Marienplatz
  • Victuals Market
  • English Garden
  • BMW Welt
  • Olympiapark
  • More

On day 4 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 Munich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nuremberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Munich, including a public square, a food market, a park, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Marienplatz. This world-famous public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Viktualienmarkt located in Munich for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of English Garden. Its serene features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Bmw Welt. This museum has a mesmerizing appeal. For a change of pace, head to Olympiapark. As one of the most widely recognized attractions in Munich, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Veles in Nuremberg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Veles delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Essigbrätlein, acclaimed for its delectable innovative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at etz, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and regional cuisine in the city.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Nuremberg, Heidelberg, and Frankfurt

  • Nuremberg
  • Heidelberg
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 326 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Schöner Brunnen
  • Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • 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 2 vibrant destinations - Nuremberg and Heidelberg. 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Nuremberg allows for both. Start by heading to Schöner Brunnen. This up-and-coming monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Nuremberg Castle, a historic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

After soaking in Nuremberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Heidelberg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 44 min. When you arrive in Heidelberg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Heidelberg Castle, an extraordinary castle in Heidelberg. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Old Bridge Heidelberg. This popular historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Lafleur, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Frankfurt is Erno's Bistro, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious classic french and modern menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gute Stute, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gleis 25. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Frankfurt, Brühl, and Cologne

  • Frankfurt
  • Eckdorf
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 232 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Phantasialand
  • More

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 Frankfurt and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Frankfurt. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a monument, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Römerberg. This is a well-known public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Iron Footbridge, an interesting monument in Frankfurt.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Zoo Frankfurt. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Palmengarten, another of the city’s interesting attractions.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Frankfurt behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Phantasialand, a spectacular amusement park known for its instagrammable features.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Cologne, Speyer, and Karlsruhe

  • Cologne
  • Speyer
  • Karlsruhe
  • More

Drive 324 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Technic Museum Speyer
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne and Speyer. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes a church and a museum. Cologne Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a locally renowned museum, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Speyer. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Technik Museum Speyer. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the aviation museum before you continue to your next stop.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Osteria Karlsruhe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Palaver. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Karlsruhe.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Santo’s Cocktailbar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Minibar Karlsruhe likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Karlsruhe - departure day

  • Karlsruhe - Departure day
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  • Marktplatz
  • Schlossgarten
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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 Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Karlsruhe’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

Prepare for a day full of an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, and a culturally significant. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Marktplatz. This worthwhile public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider bratar Burger Grill Bar | Karlsruhe, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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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