9-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe to Munich, Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Cologne and surrounding area

Say hello to Karlsruhe! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Karlsruhe for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Karlsruhe 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 Schlossgarten or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Karlsruhe. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Karlsruhe. 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 delicious meal at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a highly-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zum Kleinen Ketterer, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.

Keep the evening going at Phono Craftbeer Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Electric Eel, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jean-claude Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Karlsruhe. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Journey into the unknown at State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable natural history museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,255 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Günther-klotz-anlage is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,134 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Karlsruhe is Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,946 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Karlsruhe offers an experience you will remember.

Zkm | Center For Art And Media Karlsruhe is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Karlsruhe. This research institute promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,781 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, sein is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at TAWA YAMA FINE. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern, and international cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Carlos Cocktailbar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Ubu provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Say good night to Karlsruhe and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Stuttgart. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karlsruhe and set your GPS to Stuttgart. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Stuttgart, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schloßplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,914 visitors.

Wilhelma is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 33,531 visitors.

Mercedes-benz Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 876,109 people visit this top attraction every year. This automobile museum has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 43,234 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Munich. Munich offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Munich by securing a reservation at Atelier. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit EssZimmer, 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 Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Garçon. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Holy Spirit 1 Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Munich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Munich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stachus. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,328 visitors.

Next, make your way to Bmw Museum. This top attraction is an automobile museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,183 visitors. Bmw Museum welcomes 250,000 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Bmw Welt. Hosting 3,000,000 visitors every year, Bmw Welt is one of the most popular places to visit in Munich. This music venue is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,637 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Olympiapark. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 69,929 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at English Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,807 travelers.

Your discoveries in Munich do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Munich on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gasthaus Isarthor, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zum Dürnbräu offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zum Alten Markt. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Munich.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pusser's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Ory Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Munich. Harry's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Munich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nuremberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marienplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 119,529 visitors.

Odeonsplatz is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,385 visitors.

Nymphenburg Palace is also highly recommended by travelers. This summer residence has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,669 visitors.

Viktualienmarkt is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 58,600 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Deutsches Museum. This national museum has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 34,868 travelers. This local favorite gets around 1,250,000 visitors each year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nuremberg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Nuremberg by booking a table at Veles. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Essigbrätlein, celebrated for its delectable innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover etz, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative, and regional menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Nuremberg, and Heidelberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Schöner Brunnen. This extraordinary well has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,679 visitors.

Next, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,212 reviews.

Set your GPS to Heidelberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heidelberg beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Heidelberg Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 visitors.

When you’re finished at Heidelberg Castle, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,612 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Frankfurt, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Gustav in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Gustav delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Lafleur, acclaimed for its delectable modern french, and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Erno's Bistro, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic french, and modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gute Stute offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gleis 25 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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 Frankfurt, Königswinter, and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Römerberg one of your first sightseeing stops in Frankfurt. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Iron Footbridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,403 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Palmengarten. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,461 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Frankfurt and set your GPS to Königswinter. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schloss Drachenburg, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french, and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern, and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne, and Speyer, 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 Karlsruhe. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Cologne Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 reviews. Every year, Cologne Cathedral welcomes more than 5,000,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Lindt Chocolate Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Speyer. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Technik Museum Speyer. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Speyer, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,541 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Karlsruhe, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a top-rated dining spot in Karlsruhe. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Osteria Karlsruhe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Palaver. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Karlsruhe.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Santo’s Cocktailbar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Minibar Karlsruhe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Karlsruhe’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Marktplatz. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,876 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Extrablatt Karlsruhe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, bratar Burger Grill Bar | Karlsruhe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!