9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart traveling west to Heidelberg, Cologne, and Frankfurt

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 Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Stuttgart allows for both. Start by heading to Stuttgart Tv Tower. This notable observation deck provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Mercedes-benz Museum, a breathtaking museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Wilhelma, an interesting zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Porsche Museum.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Heidelberg for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rust and Heidelberg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Heidelberg, including an amusement park, a castle, a public square, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Silver Star. This underrated amusement park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Heidelberg Castle located in Heidelberg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Heidelberger Marktplatz. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this historical landmark.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Santa Lucia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try VINCIdue? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Essighaus as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Destille, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Orange Cafe Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Lenox Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Speyer and Koblenz, 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.

Today's adventure in Heidelberg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Technik Museum Speyer. This eye-catching aviation museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Deutsches Eck, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the town’s most captivating attractions, known for its stunning features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Duisburg and Essen. You still have 1 night left in Cologne.

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes a park, a zoo, a laser tag arena, a museum and much more! Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Duisburg Zoo, a popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away.

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

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

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne and Brühl. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Cologne Cathedral, a famous church in the city. Then, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Cologne Zoological Garden. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the widely recognized Phantasialand.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Frankfurt by securing a table at Gustav. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Lafleur, famous for its scrumptious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Erno's Bistro, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic french and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Frankfurt has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Frankfurt by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Palmengarten, a captivating botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Alte Oper, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Römerberg. This public square is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Iron Footbridge. After exploring the monument, head to the popular Zoo Frankfurt.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Lohninger, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Apfelwein Dax, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ariston Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Jambo Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Cosy Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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 - Mannheim, Schwetzingen, and Sinsheim. 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.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Luisenpark. This popular park is a serene place to see in Frankfurt. Continue your discovery at Watertower Of Mannheim, a history-steeped monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Frankfurt, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Schwetzingen Palace. This up-and-coming castle offers a history-steeped encounter with Frankfurt. Next, make your way to Technikmuseum Sinsheim 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 Frankfurt.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Si-centrum Stuttgart, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mata Hari offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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