9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling north to Mainz, Cologne, Hanover, Frankfurt, and Karlsruhe

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 Mainz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Stuttgart promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Stuttgart Tv Tower. This romantic observation deck is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Mercedes-benz Museum, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Wilhelma, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Porsche Museum. This heritage-rich museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Mainz by reserving a table at Geberts Weinstuben. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional classic and seasonal menu. For a different taste experience, head to FAVORITE restaurant, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Legends Café & Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wallenstein Cafe & Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out August. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Mainz allows for both. Start by heading to Mainz Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a historic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Eck, a notable monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Eltz Castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

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

On day 4 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 Cologne and Brühl to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Lindt Chocolate Museum, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand, a spectacular amusement park.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Soul Bar Cologne, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Duisburg and Essen, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Duisburg Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, 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 Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, an interesting museum.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hanover, 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 Hanover. 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 symphony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Handwerk delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jante, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern 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 Votum, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Seña, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sternwarte, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Dormero Hotel Hannover likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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 and Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlsruhe, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Frankfurt includes a public square, a monument, a botanical garden, a castle and much more! Römerberg is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Iron Footbridge, a well-known monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Palmengarten, a mesmerizing botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Karlsruhe by reserving a table at Bistro Margarete. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of regional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to sein, renowned for its delectable modern 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 TAWA YAMA FINE, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern and international 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 Karlsruhe.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Phono Craftbeer Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Electric Eel is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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