9-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe traveling north to Koblenz, Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt

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

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Karlsruhe. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Bistro Margarete in Karlsruhe by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Bistro Margarete offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious regional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore sein, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at TAWA YAMA FINE, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern and international menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Phono Craftbeer Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Carlos CocktailBar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Karlsruhe has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Karlsruhe by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Günther-Klotz-Anlage. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,105 visitors.

Next, make your way to ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe. This top attraction is a research institute with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,703 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,720 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Schlossgarten. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,156 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Karlsruhe, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Karlsruhe below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Badisch Brauhaus, an iconic dining spot in Karlsruhe. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Palaver, a hidden gem nestled in Karlsruhe. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Der KofferRaum - Cocktailbar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Santo’s Cocktailbar is another popular option for a drink or two.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 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 Speyer, Keldung, and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Koblenz, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Speyer. This car ride takes around 42 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Technic Museum Speyer. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 23,991 reviews.

Speyer Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,020 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Speyer, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Keldung. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Eltz Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Keldung, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,041 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Koblenz, 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 Koblenz's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Koblenz by securing a reservation at Verbene. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub, a popular restaurant in Koblenz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kaffeewirtschaft GmbH, a hidden gem nestled in Koblenz. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Spökes offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dubai Shisha Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. EXCALIBUR - The Rock Cafe is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Trier, Nürburg, and Brühl, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Koblenz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Trier may take around 1 hour 25 min. Upon your arrival in Trier, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Porta Nigra, a remarkable city gate where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,367 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Trier Amphitheater. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,829 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nürburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nürburgring. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,289 visitors.

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.

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.

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 it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Toddy Tapper, known for its inviting atmosphere. Soul Bar Cologne is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,118 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Cologne Cathedral welcomes 5,000,000 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 travelers.

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Servus Colonia Alpina offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Little Link. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bonn, Königswinter, and Sterkrade. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bonn’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Bonn welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,523 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Rheinaue. Rheinaue is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,226 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bonn 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 16 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Schloss Drachenburg. This extraordinary château has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,280 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Yoshi by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Düsseldorf is Le Flair, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious french and contemporary menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Auberge Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Engel Rockbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Dortmund. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Essen. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,866 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Shaft XII. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,311 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Essen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dortmund may take around 35 min. Upon your arrival in Dortmund, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Westfalenpark. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,165 visitors.

Rombergpark Botanical Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,482 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt.

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 , it's a top choice for classic french and modern cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gleis 25 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Frankfurt. Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Römerberg. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,391 visitors.

Iron Footbridge is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,044 travelers.

Frankfurt is also the home of Zoo Frankfurt. Around 22,563 people have rated this zoo an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Alte Oper. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 13,371 reviews, a visit to this concert hall is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Frankfurt is also your chance to admire Palmengarten. This must-visit botanical garden enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,050 reviews.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at bratar Burger Grill Bar | Karlsruhe, a highly-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're eager to try something different, consider Gasthaus Gutenberg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Syrtaki. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.

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

As you approach the end of your journey in Germany, take a moment for some retail therapy in Karlsruhe’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Germany, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Germany with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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 6,771 visitors.

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

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!