9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe traveling west to Cologne, Frankfurt, and Freiburg im Breisgau

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.

Start your adventure at Günther-klotz-anlage. This beloved park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This popular zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Panorama Terrace Turmberg, where you can take in its visually striking features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Karlsruhe by reserving a table at Bistro Margarete. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. For a different taste experience, head to sein, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Carlos Cocktailbar, known for its lively atmosphere. Ubu is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Speyer and Mainz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

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

Head to Speyer Cathedral, a notable church in Speyer. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Technik Museum Speyer. This locally renowned aviation museum is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Speyer’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mainz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive in Mainz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Mainz Cathedral, a worthwhile church in Mainz. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Grid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toddy Tapper. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 2 nights 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 Brühl and Cologne.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Cathedral and learn what makes this stunning church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Cologne Zoological Garden.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Phantasialand, a famous amusement park in Brühl. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bonn, Königswinter, and Oberhausen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Bonn. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Bonn, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, an interesting museum that draws attention for its respected features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rheinaue, a majestic park that stands out in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bonn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Schloss Drachenburg, a captivating castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Oberhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Königswinter behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Oberhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Gasometer Oberhausen, a locally renowned museum in Oberhausen. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 52 min.

Make your way to Duisburg Zoo, a popular zoo that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Duisburg Inner Harbour, a romantic marina that stands out in the city. Next, visit German Inland Waterways Museum, a beloved museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a nearby park, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Lafleur, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Erno's Bistro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gute Stute, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gleis 25 is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Frankfurt. Your adventure starts at Römerberg, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Iron Footbridge. This captivating monument is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Frankfurt's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zoo Frankfurt. This awe-inspiring zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Alte Oper is also worth visiting, along with Palmengarten. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Freiburg im Breisgau, 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 Freiburg im Breisgau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Freiburg im Breisgau by securing a table at Eichhalde. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional italian and classic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Colombi Restaurant Zirbelstube, famous for its scrumptious classic french and mediterranean dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wolfshöhle, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic cuisine in Freiburg im Breisgau. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Am Funkeneck, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Beat Bar Butzemann, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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