9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Munich

On day 2 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 Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a castle, a museum, a wine cellar, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Heidelberg Castle. This impressive castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to German Pharmacy Museum, which may be one of the most eye-catching 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 Heidelberg Tun, a beloved wine cellar in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg and Heidelberger Marktplatz.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sonder Bar (pinte), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Heidelberg for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Heidelberg and Schwetzingen.

Heidelberg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an observation deck, a historical landmark, a hiking area, a park, a zoo, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Scheffelterrasse and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Old Bridge Heidelberg, a romantic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Philosophers’ Way, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Neckarwiese (heidelberg). When you're finished at the park, Heidelberg Zoo awaits your visit. This zoo is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a castle - the underrated Schwetzingen Palace.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, VINCIdue beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Essighaus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rothenburg ob der Tauber. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Heidelberg on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended public square, Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). Afterward, continue to Medieval Crime Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Heidelberg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Castle Garden. This increasingly popular park is an essential stop. Following that, head to German Christmas Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Start your adventure at Blade Gate. This often recommended sightseeing destination is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Rothenburger Tor, a must-see historical landmark in the town.

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 Dinkelsbühl Altstadt. This frequently visited historical landmark offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Haus Der Geschichte Dinkelsbuhl and Noerdlingen Gate. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and your accommodation.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 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 Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Munich. Begin your sightseeing with Handwerkerhof Nuremberg. This up-and-coming handicraft store is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Schöner Brunnen, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Munich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Nuremberg Castle. This captivating castle is a traveler-favorite.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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