10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe traveling east to Kassel, Berlin, Chemnitz, and Munich
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Karlsruhe, Kassel, Potsdam, Berlin, Dresden, Chemnitz, Regensburg, Dachau, Munich, and Stuttgart. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Karlsruhe, 1 night in Kassel, 3 nights in Berlin, 1 night in Chemnitz, 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 Karlsruhe, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Karlsruhe, Kassel, Potsdam, Berlin, Dresden, Chemnitz, Regensburg, Dachau, Munich, and Stuttgart, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Karlsruhe - arrival day
- Karlsruhe - Arrival day
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- Marktplatz
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Karlsruhe and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 1 night 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.
Karlsruhe 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 Marktplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Karlsruhe. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Karlsruhe. 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 Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a highly-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zum Kleinen Ketterer, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.
Keep the evening going at Phono Craftbeer Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Electric Eel, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jean-claude Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Karlsruhe and Kassel
- Karlsruhe
- Kassel
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Drive 342 km, 4 hours 7 min
- State Museum of Natural History, Karlsruhe
- Günther-Klotz-Anlage
- Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe
- Schlossgarten
- More
On day 2 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 Karlsruhe. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kassel, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with a picture-perfect, a romantic, an idyllic, a gorgeous, a historically significant, and a detailed in the charming city of Karlsruhe. Your adventure starts at State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Günther-klotz-anlage. This up-and-coming park is known for its eye-catching appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Karlsruhe's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This enchanting zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Panorama Terrace Turmberg is also worth visiting, along with Schlossgarten. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 Kassel. Kassel 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Kassel's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Shamrock - Irish Pub Kassel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ginko - das glutenfreie Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gusto Tavola Calda is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kassel.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Stadt Stockholm Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Bohemia Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Seibert, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 3 – Kassel, Potsdam, and Berlin
- Kassel
- Potsdam
- Berlin
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Drive 379 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Sanssouci Park
- Sanssouci Palace
- Brandenburg Gate
- Dutch Quarter
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Potsdam, 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 Berlin. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Set your GPS to Berlin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Berlin beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Sanssouci Park, a popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Sanssouci and admire its romantic features. When you’re ready, continue to Brandenburg Gate, an interesting monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Dutch Quarter, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Berlin, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Berlin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Rutz, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Berlin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at FACIL. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and contemporary cuisine in the city.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Monkey Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Saint Jean, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Green Door Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 14 km, 40 min
- Berlin Zoological Garden
- Victory Column
- Großer Tiergarten
- Brandenburg Gate
- Potsdamer Platz
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Prepare for a day full of a stunning, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a grand, a remarkable, a charming, and a beautiful. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Berlin Zoological Garden. This top-rated zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Siegessäule, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Großer Tiergarten, one of the most interesting places to see in Berlin. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Brandenburg Gate. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this monument offers. Finally, take the path to the astonishing Potsdamer Platz, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
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.
As you explore more of Berlin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a highly-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Sharlie Cheen Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Berlin Icebar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Berlin. The Curtain Club is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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 5 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 9 km, 33 min
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- Checkpoint Charlie
- Berlin Cathedral
- Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
- Brandenburg Gate
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Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 1 night left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today's adventure in Berlin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This photogenic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Checkpoint Charlie, another symbolic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Berlin Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its historic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Berlin Wall Memorial. This picture-perfect war memorial is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Berlin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Marjellchen, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Booze Bar Berlin, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Victoria Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 6 – Berlin, Dresden, and Chemnitz
- Berlin
- Dresden
- Chemnitz
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Drive 277 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Alexanderplatz
- East Side Gallery
- Treptower Park
- Semperoper
- Zwinger
- Brandenburg Gate
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Berlin and Dresden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chemnitz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of a visually striking, a historic, an awe-inspiring, a romantic, a picturesque, a grand, and a noteworthy. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Alexanderplatz. This world-famous public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is East Side Gallery, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Treptower Park, one of the most interesting places to see in Berlin. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
After soaking in Berlin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dresden. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 4 min. When you arrive in Dresden, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Semperoper, an interesting opera house that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Zwinger and admire its stunning features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chemnitz. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Chemnitz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Chemnitz by reserving a table at Villa Esche. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional international and contemporary menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Miramar Chemnitz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 7 – Chemnitz, Regensburg, Reiflding, Dachau, and Munich
- Chemnitz
- Regensburg
- Dachau
- Munich
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Drive 434 km, 5 hours 27 min
- Old Stone Bridge
- Walhalla
- Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Regensburg, Reiflding, and Dachau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Regensburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Chemnitz behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 50 min. Regensburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Old Stone Bridge, a well-known historical landmark that everyone visiting Regensburg should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Regensburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Reiflding. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Walhalla is an increasingly popular monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dachau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 34 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, a popular museum that everyone visiting Dachau should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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 Munich. Munich 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Munich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Munich by booking a table at Atelier, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative french menu. For a different culinary experience in Munich, EssZimmer shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french 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, Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Munich. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Continue your lively evening at Garçon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zephyr Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Holy Spirit 1 Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Say good night to Munich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 8 – Munich
- Munich
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Olympiapark
- BMW Welt
- English Garden
- Victuals Market
- Deutsches Museum
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Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Munich is home to plenty of attractions that offer a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a standout, a charming, and a majestic! Start at Olympiapark, a widely recognized park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Bmw Welt, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at English Garden. This park is one of the city’s most top-rated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Munich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Viktualienmarkt. After exploring the food market, head to the popular Deutsches Museum. This museum will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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 Munich's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gasthaus Isarthor, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zum Dürnbräu? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zum Alten Markt as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Munich.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pusser's, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Ory Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Harry's, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 9 – Munich, Stuttgart, and Karlsruhe
- Munich
- Stuttgart
- Karlsruhe
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Drive 304 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Marienplatz
- Nymphenburg Palace
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Schlossplatz
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Munich and Stuttgart. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Karlsruhe. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a historically significant, and a grand. Start at the timeless Marienplatz, a visually striking public square in Munich. Next, go to Nymphenburg Palace.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stuttgart. This car ride takes around 2 hours 20 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Mercedes-benz Museum, an interesting museum that everyone visiting Stuttgart should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Schloßplatz. This history-steeped public square is one of the most notable attractions in the region.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Karlsruhe, 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 Karlsruhe. 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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Karlsruhe by securing a table at Bistro Margarete. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit sein, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern and international cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Carlos Cocktailbar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Ubu. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 10 – Karlsruhe - departure day
- Karlsruhe - Departure day
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- Schlossgarten
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Day 10 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe’s shopping center. 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 Karlsruhe.
You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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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