Relaxed 9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Frankfurt, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s itinerary in Frankfurt covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a public square, an art gallery, a church, a city hall and much more! Start your adventure at Iron Footbridge. This captivating monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Römerberg, a must-see public square 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 Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt. This worthwhile art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Frankfurt Cathedral, where you can take in breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Römer and Römer. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Frankfurt.

Start your culinary exploration in Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Frankfurt.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Barkello Café Bar Lounge is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Jambo Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Cosy Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Frankfurt as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Frankfurt!

Make sure to visit Sachsenhausen, a popular neighborhood in Frankfurt. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Frankfurt on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palmengarten is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable botanical garden before continuing your journey. Alte Oper is your next stop. This locally renowned opera house is one of the best-rated sights in Frankfurt.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Zoo Frankfurt. This visually striking zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Lohr Park.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Frankfurt. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Frankfurt that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Frankfurt to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Zu den 12 Aposteln, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chicago Meatpackers, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Gemalten Haus, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Immerse yourself in Frankfurt’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Senckenberg Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Goethe House, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to German Film Museum, an often recommended museum.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Experience shopping bliss at Frankfurt as you explore Zeil. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Zeil offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Frankfurt, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Namaste India. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Frankfurt’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Frankfurt!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Bonn and drive in the direction of the town of Königswinter for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Rheinaue, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Schloss Drachenburg, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Phantasialand. This visually striking amusement park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cologne in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cologne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This top-rated church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the most popular places to see in Cologne. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinpark. Wander around and soak in the serene atmosphere this park offers.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Cologne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the well-known Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum in Cologne. Next, go to Old Market.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cologne. The bars in Cologne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Suderman, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the hamlet of Glees. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Frankfurt, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended monastery, Maria Laach Abbey. Afterward, continue to Eltz Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This notable monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Frankfurt. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Frankfurt, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Frankfurt. The bars in Frankfurt make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.