Cheap 10-Day Germany Road Trip from Frankfurt traveling west to Freiburg im Breisgau, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Trier, and Cologne

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Frankfurt and begin your adventure in Germany.

Frankfurt is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Frankfurt is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Alte Oper, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable concert hall has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,371 reviews.

A cheap, budget vacation in Frankfurt should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Frankfurt, try some of our top recommendations.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Im Herzen Afrikas, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Apfelwein Dax - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Ariston Restaurant promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Frankfurt, check out Gleis 25. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Freiburg im Breisgau, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Frankfurt.

Make Römer your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this rathaus an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,041 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Römerberg. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

Iron Footbridge is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,044 visitors.

When you’re finished at Iron Footbridge, the perfect next stop is Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,563 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palmengarten. This botanical garden is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,050 reviews.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Freiburg im Breisgau has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Freiburg im Breisgau on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Freiburg im Breisgau, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Süden stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, El Gallo Freiburg offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Goldener Anker, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to BAR am Funkeneck, known for its inviting atmosphere. Beat Bar Butzemann is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Germany! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Freiburg im Breisgau!

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Freiburg im Breisgau and Rust. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Stuttgart, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Bertoldsbrunnen. This well is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,512 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Freiburg im Breisgau, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rust. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Take the opportunity to see Silver Star. This attraction has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 7,829 visitors.

Europa-Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This amusement park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 164,772 travelers. Up to 5,700,000 people visit Europa-Park every year.

Stuttgart offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Germany. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Stuttgart. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Café Le Théâtre, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Wirtshaus Garbe, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Le petit Coq, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jigger & Spoon, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Schwarz Weiß Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Germany!

Day 4’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Stuttgart, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Stuttgart. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Mercedes-Benz Museum. This automobile museum typically receives around 876,109 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 42,800 reviews.

Continue your journey at Wilhelma. This zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,034 travelers from near and far.

Stuttgart is also the home of Schloßplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,355 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Porsche Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,816 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Stuttgart. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Stuttgart, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Carls Brauhaus, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Japanisches Restaurant KICHO, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Paulaner am alten Postplatz, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

SI-Centrum Stuttgart is an excellent example of a great bar in Stuttgart offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Mata Hari, another of locals’ go-to bars in Stuttgart. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Stuttgart, reBOOTS is for you.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Germany!

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 3: Hechingen, Sinsheim, and Mannheim. You'll stay in Heidelberg for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Set your GPS to Hechingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 1 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hechingen beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hohenzollern Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,932 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sinsheim, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Hechingen to Sinsheim may take around 1 hour 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sinsheim, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This much-appreciated technology museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 28,645 reviews.

Set your GPS to Mannheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Mannheim beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Luisenpark. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,481 visitors.

Watertower of Mannheim is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This water tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,043 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Heidelberg. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Heidelberg, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Germany shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Heidelberg is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sonder Bar (Pinte), a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Destille, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Orange Cafe Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

A road trip vacation in Hechingen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Heidelberg and Speyer. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Trier, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,117 visitors.

Old Bridge Heidelberg is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,389 visitors.

Heidelberg Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,439 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Speyer. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Technic Museum Speyer. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Speyer, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,991 visitors.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Trier has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Trier on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Trier has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurant Brasserie offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurant Monte Petris is the perfect spot for you!

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Chrome! Alternatively, go to Studio 11 GBR, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany is another proof that cheap holidays in Germany can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Trier, Nürburg, and Koblenz. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cologne, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Make Porta Nigra one of your first sightseeing stops in Trier. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,367 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Set your GPS to Nürburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nürburg beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Nürburgring, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,289 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 50 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Deutsches Eck is a great place to start. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,856 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,199 travelers.

Cologne offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Germany. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Cologne is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Start your foodie adventure at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Limani, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Toddy Tapper is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Soul Bar Cologne, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Germany!

Day 8 of your exciting road trip across Germany is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Cologne and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Cologne.

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 32 min. Bonn welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinaue. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,226 reviews.

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Drachenburg. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Königswinter, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,280 visitors.

Duisburg’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 14 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,129 visitors.

Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,756 visitors.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Cologne, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Servus Colonia Alpina is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Little Link, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Frankfurt, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Frankfurt, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Cologne and Brühl.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cologne Chocolate Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,704 reviews.

Cologne Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 69,905 reviews. The attraction welcomes 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

The attraction gets an estimated 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park gets 1,750,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 89,377 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Frankfurt. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Frankfurt, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Frankfurt offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

Chicago Meatpackers offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Zum Gemalten Haus. Or, try Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Germany!

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Frankfurt.

As you approach the end of your journey in Germany, take a moment for some retail therapy in Frankfurt’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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Frankfurt is the remarkable Nizza. This urban park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,190 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Frankfurt, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. 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!