One-Week Germany Road Trip from Stuttgart traveling north to Frankfurt and Nuremberg

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
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Description

Summary

Duration
8 days & 7 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
7 nights included
Car rental
8 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Germany that promises to leave you speechless. With this exciting adventure, you will have the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Würzburg, and Nuremberg. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where every moment becomes a lasting story.

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 Stuttgart, 3 nights in Frankfurt, and 1 night in Nuremberg. 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 Stuttgart, 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 Palace and Mercedes-Benz Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Würzburg, and Nuremberg, 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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Included

Hotel, 7 nights
Rental car, 8 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of aerial view of Ludwigsburg Castle with garden and the city in Germany.Ludwigsburg
Heidelberg - city in GermanyHeidelberg
Photo of beautiful aerial view of Frankfurt at sunset Germany financial district skyline.Frankfurt / 3 nights
Photo of Tuebingen in the Stuttgart city ,Germany Colorful house in riverside and blue sky. Stuttgart / 3 nights
Würzburg - city in GermanyWürzburg
Photo of scenic summer view of the German traditional medieval half-timbered Old Town architecture and bridge over Pegnitz river in Nuremberg, Germany.Nuremberg / 1 night

Map

Attractions

Heidelberg Palace, Altstadt, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyHeidelberg Palace
Photo of Spectacular modern architecture and home of Museum Mercedes-Benz Welt in Stuttgart, Germany.Mercedes-Benz Museum
Photo of "Rheintor" (River Rhine Gate) with the former Customs House was the entrance gate to Linz and to "Schloßplatz" (Castle Square) with its half-timbered houses.Schloßplatz
Nuremberg Castle aerial panoramic view. Castle located in the historical center of Nuremberg city in Bavaria, Germany.Nuremberg Castle
photo of view of Christmas market near Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church in the evening, Berlin Germany., Germany,Stuttgart Wilhelma
Porsche Museum by night.Porsche Museum
Zoo FrankfurtZoo Frankfurt
Iron Footbridge
Römerberg, Altstadt, Innenstadt 1, Frankfurt, Hesse, GermanyRömerberg
PalmengartenPalm Gardens
Old Main Bridge, Würzburg Altstadt, Würzburg, Bavaria, GermanyOld Main Bridge
Panorama view of the Documentation Center and Congress Hall of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds in Nuremberg, with the Dutzendteich lake in the foreground, Bavaria, GermanyDocumentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
Old Bridge Heidelberg, Neuenheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyOld Bridge Heidelberg
Stuttgart TV Tower, Waldau, Degerloch, Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyStuttgart TV Tower
photo of view of Alte Oper, Frankfurt Oder, Germany.Alte Oper
Marienberg FortressMarienberg Fortress
Würzburg Residence, Würzburg Altstadt, Würzburg, Bavaria, GermanyWürzburg Residence
photo of Städel Museum .Städel Museum
Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, Ludwigsburg-Mitte, Ludwigsburg, Landkreis Ludwigsburg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyLudwigsburg Residential Palace
Neckarwiese, Neuenheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyNeckarwiese (Heidelberg)
Killesberg Tower, Killesberg, Stuttgart-Nord, Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyKillesberg Tower
Schöner BrunnenSchöner Brunnen
Heidelberger Marktplatz, Altstadt, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyHeidelberger Marktplatz
Nizza, R-62400, R-51477, R-62650Nizza
Frankfurt Cathedral Kaiserdon St Bartholomaus in GermanyFrankfurt Cathedral
KongresshalleNazi party rally grounds
Handwerkerhof Nuremberg, Altstadt, St. Lorenz, Nuremberg, Bavaria, GermanyHandwerkerhof Nuremberg
Würzburger Cathedral, Würzburg Altstadt, Würzburg, Bavaria, GermanyWürzburger Cathedral
Rebstockpark
photo of viewof senckenberg Museum, Frankfurt Oder, Germany.Senckenberg Museum

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Stuttgart - arrival day

  • Stuttgart - Arrival day
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  • Schloßplatz
  • More

Welcome to Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Stuttgart 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 Schloßplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Stuttgart. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Stuttgart. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Ritzi Gourmet, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le petit Coq offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Jigger & Spoon is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Schwarz Weiß 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 – Stuttgart

  • Stuttgart
  • More

Drive 35 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Stuttgart TV Tower
  • Mercedes-Benz Museum
  • Wilhelma
  • Porsche Museum
  • More

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Stuttgart TV Tower. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,522 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercedes-Benz Museum. This automobile museum welcomes around 876,109 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 42,800 reviews.

While in Stuttgart, we also recommend a visit to Wilhelma. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 33,034 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Porsche Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,816 travelers, this automobile museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Stuttgart.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Stuttgart has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Germany by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Carls Brauhaus, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Japanisches Restaurant KICHO, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Paulaner am alten Postplatz. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at SI-Centrum Stuttgart, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mata Hari provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, reBOOTS offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, Heidelberg, and Frankfurt

  • Frankfurt
  • Ludwigsburg
  • Heidelberg
  • More

Drive 220 km, 3 hours 23 min

  • Ludwigsburg Residential Palace
  • Neckarwiese (Heidelberg)
  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Heidelberger Marktplatz
  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ludwigsburg and Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ludwigsburg. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Kick off the day at Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,956 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Heidelberg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Neckarwiese (Heidelberg). This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,998 visitors.

Next, make your way to Heidelberg Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 54,117 reviews.

While in Heidelberg, we also recommend a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,651 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Heidelberg.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Frankfurt, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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 , known for its delicious classic french and modern menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gleis 25 offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Frankfurt

  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 4 km, 39 min

  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Frankfurt Cathedral
  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • More

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Frankfurt for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zoo Frankfurt. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,563 visitors.

Next, make your way to Frankfurt Cathedral. This top attraction is a church building with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,831 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Römerberg. This square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Iron Footbridge. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,044 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Dine in style at Chicago Meatpackers, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Gemalten Haus boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

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 5

Day 5 – Frankfurt

  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 14 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Senckenberg Museum
  • Palm Gardens
  • Nizza
  • Städel Museum
  • Alte Oper
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Frankfurt. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Senckenberg Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable natural history museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,412 reviews. Every year, Senckenberg Museum welcomes more than 620,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Palmengarten is a recommended place to visit. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,050 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Frankfurt is Nizza. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,190 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Frankfurt offers an experience you will remember.

Städel Museum is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Frankfurt. This art museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,294 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Alte Oper. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,371 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Frankfurt on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Frankfurt, Würzburg, and Nuremberg

  • Nuremberg
  • Frankfurt
  • Würzburg
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Rebstockpark
  • Marienberg Fortress
  • Old Main Bridge
  • Würzburger Cathedral
  • Würzburg Residence
  • More

On day 6 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 Frankfurt and Würzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nuremberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rebstockpark. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,817 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Frankfurt, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Würzburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Marienberg Fortress your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,851 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Old Main Bridge. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,308 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Wurzburg Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,032 visitors.

When you’re finished at Wurzburg Cathedral, the perfect next stop is Würzburg Residence. This schloss is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,366 reviews. Würzburg Residence attracts approximately 350,000 visitors annually.

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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Irish Castle Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, bierwerk is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Nuremberg and Stuttgart

  • Stuttgart
  • Nuremberg
  • More

Drive 211 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Nuremberg Castle
  • Schöner Brunnen
  • Handwerkerhof Nuremberg
  • Nazi party rally grounds
  • Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nuremberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stuttgart, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,670 reviews.

Next up is Schöner Brunnen. This well has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,461 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Handwerkerhof Nuremberg. This courtyard has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,346 reviews.

Nazi party rally grounds is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This building complex has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,423 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This military museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 15,648 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Stuttgart. Stuttgart offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ambiente Africa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, ABACCO'S STEAKHOUSE Stuttgart offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, 5 Gourmet Restaurant & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stuttgart.

Cap off your dinner by heading to FOU FOU | Cocktail- und Champagnerbar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kap Tormentoso is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Waranga is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 8

Day 8 – Stuttgart - departure day

  • Stuttgart - Departure day
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  • Killesberg Tower
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Stuttgart before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Germany, take a moment for some retail therapy in Stuttgart’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Germany, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Germany with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Take the opportunity to see Killesberg Tower. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,175 visitors.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at meatery bar + restaurant Stuttgart, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Triple B - Beef Burger Brothers is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Stuttgart. 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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