One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling north to Frankfurt, Cologne, and Karlsruhe

Dive into day 2 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Stuttgart, including an observation deck, a museum, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Stuttgart Tv Tower. This popular observation deck is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Mercedes-benz Museum located in Stuttgart for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Wilhelma. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Porsche Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this museum.

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.

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. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Lafleur, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Frankfurt is Erno's Bistro, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious classic french and modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gute Stute, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gleis 25 is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Duisburg and Essen. You still have 2 nights left in Cologne.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a park, a zoo, a laser tag arena, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This interesting park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Duisburg Zoo, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a locally appreciated laser tag arena in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Unesco-welterbe Zollverein.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 5 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 will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brühl and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Don’t miss Schildergasse in Brühl today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the village’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes an amusement park, a church, a public square, a museum and much more! Phantasialand is must-visit amusement park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Cologne Cathedral, an extraordinary church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Old Market, a romantic public square, also available for your discovery today.

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 in Cologne. 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 wonderful meal at Limani, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Suderman after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the hamlet’s most loved attractions await! Maria Laach Abbey is the perfect place to start. This monastery is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Technik Museum Speyer, a notable aviation museum, 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 Speyer Cathedral. This stunning church is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe by booking a table at Bistro Margarete, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional regional menu. For a different culinary experience in Karlsruhe, sein shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern 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, TAWA YAMA FINE is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Phono Craftbeer Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Electric Eel is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Schwetzingen and Sinsheim. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stuttgart. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Karlsruhe. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monastery, a castle, and an aviation museum. Begin your adventure at All Saints' Abbey. This is a frequently visited monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is Schwetzingen Palace, a frequently visited castle in Karlsruhe.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Technikmuseum Sinsheim.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stuttgart. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Stuttgart by securing a table at Der Zauberlehrling. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Speisemeisterei, famous for its scrumptious creative and innovative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Ritzi Gourmet, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative french and modern cuisine in Stuttgart. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative french and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Si-centrum Stuttgart, known for its lively atmosphere. Mata Hari is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!