9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Nuremberg

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cologne.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum, a visually striking museum in Cologne. Next, go to Museum Ludwig.

After visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum and Museum Ludwig, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cologne Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience. Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Cologne's bustling shopping hub, Hohe Straße. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Hohe Straße offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Heidelberg, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Heidelberg may take around 2 hours 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Heidelberg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Heidelberg Castle, a widely recognized castle known for its enchanting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Karlsplatz, an increasingly popular public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Heidelberger Marktplatz and uncover the details of this enchanting public square. Make sure to also explore Old Bridge Heidelberg, a popular historical landmark. For your last stop, consider Philosophers’ Way, an eye-catching hiking area that many travelers find worth the detour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

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.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you will stay for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Baden-Baden may take around 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Baden-Baden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Merkur Funicular Railway is an increasingly popular heritage railway we recommend visiting today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour to Trinkhalle, a stunning museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Freiburg im Breisgau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Freiburg im Breisgau is Stadtgarten Freiburg, an underrated park that draws attention for its peaceful features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Freiburger Münsterbauverein, a majestic church that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Bertoldsbrunnen, a locally appreciated public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Martin's Gate, a nearby monument, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Freiburg im Breisgau.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel Oberkirch, a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Freiburg im Breisgau at Süden, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated El Gallo Freiburg. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Freiburg im Breisgau tonight.

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

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Freiburg im Breisgau, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Freiburg im Breisgau, Triberg im Schwarzwald, and Hausach.

Freiburg im Breisgau is brimming with adventures.

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Seepark Betzenhausen, an eye-catching park in Freiburg im Breisgau.

After soaking in Freiburg im Breisgau’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Triberg im Schwarzwald. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Triberg im Schwarzwald, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Triberg Waterfalls and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Schwarzwaldmuseum, another highlight in Triberg im Schwarzwald. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Triberg-land, a stunning waterfall.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Triberg im Schwarzwald and set your GPS to Hausach. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 28 min. Upon reaching Hausach, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Husen Castle, a frequently visited castle that everyone visiting Hausach should see.

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

Freiburg im Breisgau 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 Freiburg im Breisgau.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kucci, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Goldener Anker offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Martinsbräu is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), an increasingly popular public square that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Medieval Crime Museum, a respected museum that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to German Christmas Museum, an often recommended museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Castle Garden, a nearby park, highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Nuremberg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nuremberg, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and set your GPS to Nuremberg. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. Upon reaching Nuremberg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a notable museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Nuremberg Castle, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Next, explore Albrecht Dürer's House, yet another up-and-coming place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Fleisch Bridge. This awe-inspiring monument is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Nürnberg Altstadt, an underrated historical landmark you won’t want to miss.

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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Irish Castle Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mata Hari Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Undecided Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Würzburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Würzburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Würzburg beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Würzburg Residence. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Wurzburg Cathedral. This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Old Main Bridge. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Marienberg Fortress, an interesting castle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Suderman, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!