One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nuremberg traveling west to Heidelberg

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Photo of Maxbrucke or Maxbruecke is an arch bridge over the Pegnitz river in the old town of Nuremberg.
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Explore the best of Germany on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Lindau.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 4 nights in Nuremberg and 3 nights in Heidelberg. 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 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. Heidelberg Castle and Nuremberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Old Bridge Heidelberg, learn more about the unique Freiburger Münsterbauverein, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds.

As you hit the open road and drive through Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Lindau, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nuremberg - Arrival day
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  • Handwerkerhof Nürnberg
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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 3 nights discovering what to see in Nuremberg 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 Handwerkerhof Nuremberg, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Nuremberg. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Irish Castle Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mata Hari Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nuremberg. Undecided Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nuremberg
  • More

Drive 13 km, 48 min

  • Kongresshalle
  • Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
  • Toy Museum
  • St Sebald - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg
  • Schöner Brunnen
  • Nürnberg Altstadt
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Nuremberg has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Nuremberg.

No visit to Nuremberg is complete without Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This underrated convention center is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Nuremberg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Toy Museum. This worthwhile museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Schöner Brunnen is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Nürnberg Altstadt and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most up-and-coming attractions.

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.

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Katzentempel Nürnberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nuremberg.

Keep the evening going at Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bierwerk, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Nuremberg
  • More

Drive 160 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Plönlein
  • Medieval Crime Museum
  • German Christmas Museum
  • Burggarten
  • Blade Gate
  • Gallows Gate
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Nuremberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Nuremberg, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rothenburg ob der Tauber to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Experience Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), a beloved public square in the town. Then, head to Medieval Crime Museum and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Nuremberg, and when you are ready for more, go to German Christmas Museum. This is one of the town’s most locally appreciated photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the worthwhile Castle Garden. Not far away, you'll also find Blade Gate. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Gallows Gate, a beloved sightseeing destination in the town.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Padelle d'Italia Nürnberg, an iconic dining spot in Nuremberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Safran Restaurant Nürnberg - Persische Spezialitäten, a popular restaurant in Nuremberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Indisches Restaurant Ganesha Nürnberg, a hidden gem nestled in Nuremberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Nuremberg
  • Heidelberg
  • More

Drive 236 km, 3 hours 23 min

  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Karlsplatz
  • Church of the Holy Spirit
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • Philosophers' Way
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Heidelberg Castle is an essential stop in Nuremberg. This top-rated castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Karlsplatz, a romantic public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, an underrated church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Old Bridge Heidelberg. Round off your day at Philosophers’ Way, another gem in Nuremberg with romantic features to discover.

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.

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 Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heidelberg
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • Merkur Funicular Railway
  • Gönneranlage
  • Museum Frieder Burda
  • Trinkhalle
  • The Baden-Baden Casino
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

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

Let Merkur Funicular Railway set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this stunning heritage railway before continuing your journey. Gönneranlage is your next stop. This underrated park is one of the best-rated sights in Heidelberg.

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 Museum Frieder Burda. This stunning museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Trinkhalle and The Baden-baden Casino.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider VINCIdue, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essighaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Destille is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Orange Cafe Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Lenox Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Heidelberg
  • More

Drive 378 km, 4 hours 45 min

  • Martin's Gate
  • Bertoldsbrunnen
  • Augustiner Museum
  • Freiburg Minster
  • Stadtgarten Freiburg
  • Kanonenplatz
  • More

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Freiburg im Breisgau. With 1 night to stay in Heidelberg, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Martin's Gate makes a great addition to your morning plans. This increasingly popular monument is a culturally significant place to see in Heidelberg. Continue your discovery at Bertoldsbrunnen, an eye-catching public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heidelberg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Augustiner Museum. This intriguing museum offers a photogenic encounter with Heidelberg. Next, make your way to Freiburger Münsterbauverein to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Stadtgarten Freiburg, a frequently visited park that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Kanonenplatz, an increasingly popular observation deck in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Heidelberg.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Löwenbräu, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at HUGO Wine & Dine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at P11 Café Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Karl for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Heidelberg
  • Nuremberg
  • More

Drive 635 km, 7 hours 14 min

  • Gartendenkmal Lindenhofpark
  • New Lighthouse
  • Mangturm
  • Altes Rathaus - Lindau am Bodensee
  • More

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

Visiting Gartendenkmal Lindenhofpark is always a good idea. This intriguing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Neuer Lindauer Leuchtturm, a must-see lighthouse in the hamlet.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Mangturm. This up-and-coming lighthouse offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Altes Rathaus, where you can take in gorgeous features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Nuremberg. Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Chong's Diner, a top-rated dining spot in Nuremberg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zum Albrecht Dürer Haus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Delphi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nuremberg.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Nuremberg - Departure day
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  • Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
  • More

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, begin at Nuremberg Castle. This well-known castle is a hotspot among locals.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Park Inn by Radisson Nürnberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Bar Katz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Fränk'ness.

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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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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