Cheap 11-Day Germany Road Trip from Frankfurt traveling south to Cologne, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Munich, and Nuremberg

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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Alte Oper, a remarkable concert hall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,602 reviews.

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, Frankfurt 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.

Berliner Keller Frankfurt 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, Im Herzen Afrikas offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Frankfurt, Gute Stute. Alternatively, visit Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Gleis 25, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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 Cologne, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Cologne, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Frankfurt.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Frankfurt Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,990 reviews.

Römerberg is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,968 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Iron Footbridge. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,403 reviews.

Städel Museum is another outstanding experience in Frankfurt. Around 9,458 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Palmengarten is not far away. This botanical garden is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,461 reviews.

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.

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. Cologne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Cologne on day 3 of your affordable vacation in Germany. You’ll continue your stay in Cologne for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Rhine Garden Sculpture is a great place to start. This fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,820 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 travelers. Every year, 5,000,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Cologne.

We also recommend a stop at Old Market. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Phantasialand. This amusement park typically receives around 1,750,000 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cologne, 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, RheinZeit is the perfect spot for you!

Soul Bar Cologne offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Koblenz, and Speyer. You'll stay in Heidelberg for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This much-appreciated fortress is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,566 reviews.

Next up is Deutsches Eck. This headland has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Speyer. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Technik Museum Speyer your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,541 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Heidelberg, 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 Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, 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 Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sonder Bar (pinte) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Heidelberg. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Stuttgart, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Old Bridge Heidelberg, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,612 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Heidelberger Marktplatz is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,790 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Heidelberg is Heidelberg Castle. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Heidelberg offers an experience you will remember.

Heidelberg Zoo is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Heidelberg. This zoo promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,663 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Stuttgart. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Stuttgart, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place 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 Stuttgart offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Petit Coq is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Jigger & Spoon, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Schwarz Weiß Bar. 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 6 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Stuttgart. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Munich, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Schloßplatz. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,914 visitors.

Porsche Museum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This automobile museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 travelers.

Stuttgart is also the home of Wilhelma. Around 33,531 people have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Mercedes-benz Museum, which hosts up to 876,109 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 43,234 reviews, a visit to this automobile museum is a great idea.

Munich 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 Munich. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Garçon, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zephyr Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Holy Spirit 1 Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 7 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 Munich and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 2 nights left in Munich.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Hohenschwangau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Hohenschwangau Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,919 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Neuschwanstein Castle. Neuschwanstein Castle is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,520 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Füssen. This car ride takes around 8 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau. Previous visitors have rated this spa an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,307 reviews.

After soaking in Füssen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 49 min. When you arrive in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Linderhof Palace. This popular palace has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,178 visitors.

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

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, Munich 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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Gasthaus Isarthor, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Zum Dürnbräu is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Zum Alten Markt.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Munich, Pusser's. Ory Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Harry's, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

On day 8 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Munich and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Munich — 1 night.

Kick off the day at Nymphenburg Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This summer residence is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 31,669 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Stachus. Stachus is a square with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,328 reviews.

Marienplatz is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 119,529 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Viktualienmarkt. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,600 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Deutsches Museum, a famous national museum in Munich. This attraction welcomes 1,250,000 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 34,868 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Munich. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Munich offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Germany worth remembering for a lifetime.

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. Munich has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your foodie adventure at Le Clou, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Munich, check out The Boilerman Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Koli's Bar.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Germany. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Germany!

Day 9 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 1 wonderful destinations — Munich. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Nuremberg, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Eisbachwelle, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,432 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at English Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,807 travelers.

Bmw Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned automobile museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,183 travelers and attracting 250,000 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Bmw Welt. This well-loved music venue boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 32,637 reviews. In a single year, approximately 3,000,000 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Olympiapark awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an olympic park, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 69,929 previous visitors.

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Irish Castle Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mata Hari Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Undecided Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 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 Nuremberg, and Würzburg.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schöner Brunnen. This well is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,679 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,212 reviews.

Set your GPS to Würzburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Würzburg beckons with new experiences!

Make Würzburg Residence one of your first sightseeing stops in Würzburg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,751 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This schloss attracts 350,000 visitors every year.

Old Main Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,624 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Marienberg Fortress. This fortress has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,044 visitors.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Frankfurt, 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Barkello Café Bar Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Cosy Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Germany. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Germany!

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Frankfurt.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Frankfurt’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Frankfurt is the remarkable Willy-brandt-platz, Frankfurt. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,284 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 Zu den 12 Aposteln, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Chicago Meatpackers features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Zum Gemalten Haus 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!