Cheap 11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe traveling west to Frankfurt, Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Trier

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Karlsruhe. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Karlsruhe and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Discover a day packed with a romantic, a majestic, a stunning, and an instagrammable in Karlsruhe. Begin your sightseeing with Günther-klotz-anlage. This often recommended park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Karlsruhe, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This well-known zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find City Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Carlos Cocktailbar, considered one of the best bars in Karlsruhe. You can also enjoy drinks at Ubu, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Karlsruhe.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Karlsruhe!

Day 3 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 2 wonderful destinations — Rust and Mannheim. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Frankfurt, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karlsruhe and set your GPS to Rust. 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 1 hour 10 min. Upon reaching Rust, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Silver Star is a frequently visited amusement park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Mannheim’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rust behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Mannheim welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Luisenpark is an interesting park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour to Watertower Of Mannheim, a romantic monument that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Paradeplatz, a picture-perfect public square.

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

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gute Stute, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gleis 25. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Frankfurt. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Dortmund, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a respected, a culturally significant, and a picturesque. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Römerberg. This locally renowned public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Iron Footbridge, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Zoo Frankfurt, one of the most well-known places to see in Frankfurt. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Alte Oper. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this opera house offers. Finally, take the path to the popular Palmengarten, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

Dortmund 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.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vater&sohn, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Loka Lounge Dortmund is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Düsseldorf, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Düsseldorf, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Dortmund and Feldhausen.

Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a peaceful, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, and a masterful. Start at the notable Westfalenpark, an eye-catching park in Dortmund. Next, go to Rombergpark Botanical Garden.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Feldhausen. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Movie Park, a spectacular amusement park in Feldhausen. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Düsseldorf. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Düsseldorf, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place 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, Düsseldorf 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Engelchen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Cherie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Auberge Rock Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Essen and Duisburg. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Essen. Your travel time is around 48 min.

Make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a locally renowned museum that draws attention for its historic features.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 28 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Tiger & Turtle. This worthwhile art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Duisburg Zoo. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the zoo.

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

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.

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

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 2 nights left in Cologne, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Today’s route brings a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a standout, a monumental, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. The first attraction of today is Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is a historic place to see in Cologne.

Aachen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. Aachen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Aachen Cathedral, a well-known church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Elisenbrunnen, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aachen 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 51 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the instagrammable features.

When you’ve had your share of Brühl, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Königswinter. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Drachenburg, a popular castle known for its enchanting features.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in Germany by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Cologne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Mongo's Restaurant Köln offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami". Or, try RheinZeit, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Soul Bar Cologne is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 8’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Cologne. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with a picture-perfect, a romantic, an awe-inspiring, and a historic in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Lindt Chocolate Museum, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Old Market. This popular public square is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. This awe-inspiring zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Limani, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld is the perfect spot for you!

Suderman offers many snacks and liquors at different price points.

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

On day 9 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Bonn, Koblenz, and Keldung. You'll stay in Trier 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, Bonn. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rheinaue, a notable park known for its eye-catching features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Koblenz, 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 Bonn to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 2 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a notable castle that everyone visiting Koblenz should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Deutsches Eck. This picture-perfect monument is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Keldung. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Keldung, it's time to take a break from the road.

Eltz Castle is an interesting castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Chrome! offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Studio 11 Gbr is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Simplicissimus is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 10 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 2 wonderful destinations — Trier and Speyer. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Karlsruhe, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Trier is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument and an archeological site. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Porta Nigra. Just a short distance away is Trier Amphitheater, a culturally significant archeological site that draws visitors from far and near.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Trier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Speyer may take around 2 hours 10 min. Upon your arrival in Speyer, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Technik Museum Speyer, a well-known aviation museum that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Speyer Cathedral, a picture-perfect church that stands out in the city.

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

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

Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe 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, L'Osteria Karlsruhe offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Café Palaver, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Santo’s Cocktailbar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Minibar Karlsruhe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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