9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne, Heidelberg, Nuremberg, and Munich
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Heidelberg, Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich, and Würzburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 2 nights in Cologne, 1 night in Heidelberg, 2 nights in Nuremberg, and 1 night in Munich. 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 Dortmund, 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. Marienplatz and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable English Garden, learn more about the unique Heidelberg Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Nuremberg Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Heidelberg, Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich, and Würzburg, 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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Day 1
- Dortmund - Arrival day
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- Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Dortmund 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 Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Dortmund. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Alten Markt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ringhotel Drees is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dortmund.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vater&sohn is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Loka Lounge Dortmund, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Central Bar & More Dortmund. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dortmund
- Cologne
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Drive 98 km, 1 hour 59 min
- Rheinboulevard
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Cathedral
- Museum Ludwig
- Old Market
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dortmund. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Rheinboulevard is the perfect place to start. This boardwalk is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a notable museum, known for its eye-catching 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 Cologne Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Museum Ludwig and Old Market. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Cologne
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Drive 85 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Beethoven-Haus Bonn
- Poppelsdorf Palace
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Beethoven-haus Bonn. This museum is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Poppelsdorf Palace.
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.
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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.
Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 4
- Cologne
- Heidelberg
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Heidelberg Palace
- Kornmarkt
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Philosophers' Way
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Heidelberg Castle. This spectacular castle is a symbolic place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Kornmarkt, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. This frequently visited church offers an enchanting encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Philosophers’ Way, an up-and-coming hiking area that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heidelberg. 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, 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 Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sonder Bar (pinte), a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 5
- Heidelberg
- Nuremberg
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- St Sebald - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg
- Toy Museum
- Fleischbrücke (Nürnberg)
- Nürnberg Altstadt
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nuremberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nuremberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Nuremberg Castle, a popular castle in the city. Then, head to St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg and soak in the ambiance of this stunning church.
There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Toy Museum. This is one of the city’s most intriguing historic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the up-and-coming Fleisch Bridge. Not far away, you'll also find Nürnberg Altstadt. This historical landmark is a respected highlight in Heidelberg.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nuremberg's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Burgwächter, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Alte Küch'n & Im Keller offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nuremberg.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Irish Castle Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Mata Hari Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Undecided Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Nuremberg
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Drive 159 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Blade Gate
- Town Hall
- German Christmas Museum
- Medieval Crime Museum
- Plönlein
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nuremberg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Nuremberg, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Blade Gate, a frequently visited sightseeing destination in the town. Then, head to Town Hall and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic city hall.
There are many interesting places to see in Nuremberg, and when you are ready for more, go to German Christmas Museum. This is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the curiosity-inducing Medieval Crime Museum. Not far away, you'll also find Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This public square is a history-steeped highlight in Nuremberg.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nuremberg.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Katzentempel Nürnberg, an iconic dining spot in Nuremberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel, a popular restaurant in Nuremberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan, a hidden gem nestled in Nuremberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ludwigs Bar & Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bierwerk offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.
Head back to your accommodation in Nuremberg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 7
- Nuremberg
- Munich
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 40 min
- English Garden
- Nymphenburg Palace
- Dianatempel
- Marienplatz
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On day 7 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 Munich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Nuremberg, including a park, a palace, and a public square. Start your day at English Garden. This awe-inspiring park is an impressive place to see in Nuremberg. Then, wander over to Nymphenburg Palace. If stunning sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Hofgarten. This respected park is a favorite among visitors.
Nuremberg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Marienplatz is a wondrous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Munich, 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining spot in Munich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ginkgo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Munich.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Garçon, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Zephyr Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Holy Spirit 1 Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 8
- Munich
- Dortmund
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Drive 615 km, 7 hours 10 min
- Würzburg Residence
- Würzburger Cathedral
- Old Main Bridge
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Würzburg, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Munich covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a church, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Würzburg Residence. This intriguing palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Wurzburg Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.
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 Old Main Bridge. This captivating historical landmark offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lord. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its lively atmosphere.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 9
- Dortmund - Departure day
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- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This intriguing botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Dortmund's best shopping area, Westenhellweg. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
Savor the flavors at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALEX Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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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