9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart to Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, and Munich
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, Munich, Hohenschwangau, Dachau, and Ludwigsburg.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Stuttgart, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 1 night in Nuremberg, and 2 nights 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 Stuttgart, 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 Neuschwanstein Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Viktualienmarkt, learn more about the unique Heidelberg Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mercedes-benz Museum.
As you hit the open road and drive through Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, Munich, Hohenschwangau, Dachau, and Ludwigsburg, 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
- Stuttgart - Arrival day
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- Schlossplatz
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Stuttgart and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 2 nights 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.
Stuttgart 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 Schloßplatz, 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 Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Tavern Waldhorn, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Le Théâtre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Garbe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Petit Coq, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Jigger & Spoon offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stuttgart. Schwarz Weiß Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Stuttgart
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Drive 29 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Nunos porsche Museum
- Killesberg Park
- Staatsgalerie Stuttgart
- Wilhelma
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Stuttgart. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Immerse yourself in Stuttgart’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Porsche Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Killesberg Tower, a must-visit park 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 Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, an often recommended art gallery. For a change of scene, check out Wilhelma, known for its instagrammable 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.
Experience shopping bliss at Stuttgart as you explore Königstraße. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Königstraße offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stuttgart. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riedsee. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Si-centrum Stuttgart, known for its lively atmosphere. Mata Hari is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 3
- Stuttgart
- Heidelberg
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Heidelberg Palace
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Philosophers' Way
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Stuttgart is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a public square, a historical landmark, a hiking area and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the impressive Heidelberg Castle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Heidelberger Marktplatz, a history-steeped public square that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Old Bridge Heidelberg, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Philosophers’ Way.
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 delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sonder Bar (pinte), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Heidelberg
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 175 km, 2 hours 29 min
- Double Bridge
- Plönlein
- Medieval Crime Museum
- German Christmas Museum
- Gallows Gate
- Town Hall
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rothenburg ob der Tauber. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heidelberg today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Double Bridge. This culturally significant monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) and learn what makes this history-steeped public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Medieval Crime Museum. After exploring the museum, head to German Christmas Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a highlight in Heidelberg. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the often recommended Town Hall. Enjoy exploring this incredible city hall at your own pace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Say good night to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Nuremberg
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Drive 108 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Albrecht Dürer's House
- St Sebald - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg
- Schöner Brunnen
- Museum Bridge
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nuremberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nuremberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the captivating Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, an instagrammable museum in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Next, go to Nuremberg Castle.
After visiting Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and Nuremberg Castle, have a stroll along Rothenburg ob der Tauber's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Albrecht Dürer's House. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience. St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Schöner Brunnen, one of the most noteworthy places to visit in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Museum Bridge.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Burgwächter, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Alte Küch'n & Im Keller? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nuremberg.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Irish Castle Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mata Hari Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Undecided Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 6
- Nuremberg
- Munich
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Drive 182 km, 2 hours 42 min
- BMW Museum
- Nymphenburg Palace
- Odeonsplatz
- Victuals Market
- Marienplatz
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On day 6 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 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Nuremberg, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Bmw Museum, a popular museum in the city. Then, head to Nymphenburg Palace and soak in the ambiance of this romantic palace.
There are many interesting places to see in Nuremberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Odeonsplatz. This is one of the city’s most interesting awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the famous Viktualienmarkt. Not far away, you'll also find Marienplatz. This public square is an enchanting highlight in Nuremberg.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Munich. Munich offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Little London / Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Munich at Ginkgo, 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 Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Garçon, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Zephyr Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 7
- Munich
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Drive 253 km, 4 hours 23 min
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Museum of the Bavarian Kings
- Marienbrücke
- Neuschwanstein Castle
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On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Munich for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Hohenschwangau Castle. This interesting castle is an awe-inspiring place to see in Munich. Continue your discovery at Museum Of The Bavarian Kings, a breathtaking museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Munich, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Marienbrücke. Next, make your way to Neuschwanstein Castle to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Munich.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Munich and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Munich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gasthaus Isarthor, an iconic dining spot in Munich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zum Dürnbräu, a popular restaurant in Munich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Alten Markt, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pusser's, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Ory Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Harry's. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 8
- Munich
- Stuttgart
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 49 min
- Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
- Stuttgart TV Tower
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Frieden Church
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Dachau, Stuttgart, and Ludwigsburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stuttgart. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Munich allows for both. Start by heading to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. This popular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Stuttgart Tv Tower, a visually striking observation deck, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mercedes-benz Museum, a locally renowned museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Frieden Church.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Wielandshöhe, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Carls Brauhaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.
Keep the evening going at Reboots, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Fou Fou | Cocktail- Und Champagnerbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Barbados Stuttgart, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
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
- Stuttgart - Departure day
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- Hans-im-Glück-Brunnen
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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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart’s shopping center, the lively Gerber Shopping Mall. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Stuttgart.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Japanisches Restaurant KICHO, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Paulaner am alten Postplatz? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Stuttgart. 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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