One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nuremberg to Dresden, Berlin, Bielefeld, Heidelberg, and Munich and surrounding area
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Description
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 2 nights in Nuremberg, 1 night in Dresden, 1 night in Berlin, 1 night in Bielefeld, 1 night in Heidelberg, and 1 night in Munich. 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 Nuremberg, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Marienplatz, learn more about the unique Checkpoint Charlie, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cologne Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Nuremberg, Dresden, Berlin, Bielefeld, Cologne, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, and Munich, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Nuremberg - Arrival day
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- Schöner Brunnen
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Welcome to Nuremberg, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Nuremberg's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Nuremberg 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 Schöner Brunnen, or just 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 Nuremberg. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Nuremberg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Restaurant Burgwächter, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Alte Küch'n & Im Keller boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nuremberg.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Irish Castle Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Mata Hari Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Undecided Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Nuremberg
- Dresden
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Drive 328 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Handwerkerhof Nürnberg
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Kongresshalle
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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 Nuremberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dresden, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Nuremberg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Nuremberg Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable castle before continuing your journey. Handwerkerhof Nuremberg is your next stop. This increasingly popular handicraft store is one of the best-rated sights in Nuremberg.
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 Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This culturally significant museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dresden. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Dresden, 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Dresden by booking a table at ElbUferei. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and international cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Genuss-Atelier, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Elements, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern and international 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 Hebeda's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Blondes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Dresden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Dresden
- Berlin
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Drive 203 km, 2 hours 41 min
- The Grand Garden of Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- Semperoper
- Zwinger
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dresden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Dresden includes a park, a public square, a church, an opera house, a palace and much more! The Grand Garden Of Dresden is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Brühl's Terrace, a locally renowned public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of Our Lady, a visually striking church, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dresden. If you’re looking for more, Semperoper is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Zwinger, a popular gem to see in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Berlin. Berlin offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Berlin by reserving a table at Rutz. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit FACIL, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and contemporary cuisine in Berlin. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Keep the evening going at Monkey Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Saint Jean, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Green Door Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Berlin
- Bielefeld
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Drive 399 km, 4 hours 37 min
- Alexanderplatz
- Checkpoint Charlie
- Brandenburg Gate
- Berlin Zoological Garden
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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 - Berlin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bielefeld. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Berlin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a historical landmark, a monument, a zoo and much more! Begin your adventure at Alexanderplatz. This is an iconic public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Checkpoint Charlie, a widely recognized historical landmark in Berlin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Brandenburg Gate. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Berlin Zoological Garden, another of the city’s spectacular attractions.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bielefeld, 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 Bielefeld. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at GlückundSeligkeit, a top-rated dining spot in Bielefeld. If you're in the mood for something new, try New Orleans, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Knigge. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bielefeld.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Die Villa, known for its inviting atmosphere. Three Sixty Bielefeld is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cutie provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 5
- Bielefeld
- Heidelberg
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Drive 448 km, 5 hours 3 min
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Cologne Cathedral
- Old Market
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bielefeld, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable zoo in the city. Then, head to Cologne Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect church.
There are many interesting places to see in Bielefeld and when you are ready for more, go to Old Market. This is one of the city’s most notable spots.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Heidelberg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heidelberg's best restaurants.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Heidelberg
- Munich
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Drive 362 km, 4 hours 38 min
- Heidelberg Palace
- Schlossplatz
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg and 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heidelberg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Heidelberg Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Heidelberg. Next, head to Schloßplatz, a notable public square, known for its history-steeped 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 Mercedes-benz Museum. This awe-inspiring museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Munich. Munich offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Munich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Atelier, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, EssZimmer is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Munich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.
Continue your lively evening at Garçon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zephyr Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Holy Spirit 1 Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 7
- Munich
- Nuremberg
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Drive 184 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Marienplatz
- Victuals Market
- Olympiapark
- BMW Museum
- English Garden
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On day 7 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Munich today. One of the most timeless attractions included on the itinerary is Marienplatz. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Viktualienmarkt and learn what makes this picture-perfect food market unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the famous Olympiapark. After exploring the park, head to Bmw Museum. This well-known museum is a highlight in Munich. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the top-rated English Garden. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nuremberg. 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Veles, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Essigbrätlein, known for its delicious innovative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nuremberg is etz, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and regional menu.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bierwerk provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.
Say good night to Nuremberg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 8
- Nuremberg - Departure day
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- Ehekarussell
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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 Nuremberg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Ehekarussell, a detailed art installation before you head out.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Nuremberg’s popular marketplace, Karolinenstraße. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nuremberg.
You’ll then say farewell to Nuremberg. 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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