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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Schildergasse, a must-see street in Cologne. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Belgisches Viertel, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Start your day at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum is a popular place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Museum Ludwig. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cologne Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

Make a stop at Heidelberg Castle. This spectacular castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Karlsplatz located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Heidelberger Marktplatz. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this historical landmark. Next up is Philosophers’ Way, a highly recommended hiking area.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Bar Goodfellas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll spend 2 nights.

To truly experience Heidelberg, make sure to drop by Merkur Funicular Railway. This up-and-coming heritage railway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Trinkhalle, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Stadtgarten Freiburg, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Heidelberg. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Freiburger Münsterbauverein. Wander around and soak in the stunning atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Bertoldsbrunnen, a top-rated public square that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the intriguing Martin's Gate, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Oberkirch, an iconic dining spot in Freiburg im Breisgau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Süden, a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Gallo Freiburg, a hidden gem nestled in Freiburg im Breisgau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Am Funkeneck, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Beat Bar Butzemann, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Freiburg im Breisgau, Triberg im Schwarzwald, and Hausach.

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

Make a stop at Seepark Betzenhausen. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Triberg Waterfalls located in Freiburg im Breisgau for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Schwarzwaldmuseum. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Triberg-land. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this waterfall. Next up is Husen Castle, a highly recommended castle.

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

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

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.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), an often recommended public square that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Medieval Crime Museum, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at German Christmas Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most intriguing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Freiburg im Breisgau at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Castle Garden. After exploring the park, head to the beloved Blade Gate.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

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

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Nuremberg Castle, a standout castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Albrecht Dürer's House, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Fleisch Bridge. When you're finished at the monument, Nürnberg Altstadt awaits your visit. This historical landmark is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Burgwächter, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Alte Küch'n & Im Keller offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nuremberg.

Continue your lively evening at Irish Castle Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mata Hari Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Undecided Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Würzburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Würzburg Residence is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Wurzburg Cathedral, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Nuremberg 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 Old Main Bridge, an interesting historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Marienberg Fortress.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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