Cheap 11-Day Germany Road Trip from Stuttgart traveling west to Heidelberg, Mainz, Cologne, Bielefeld, Essen, and Frankfurt

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

Stuttgart is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Stuttgart 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Schloßplatz. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,355 reviews.

Savor the culinary delights of Stuttgart, 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 Café Le Théâtre, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Wirtshaus Garbe is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Le petit Coq, considered one of the best bars in Stuttgart. You can also enjoy drinks at Jigger & Spoon, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Schwarz Weiß Bar, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Stuttgart.

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

Journey into the unknown at Stuttgart TV Tower, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,522 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Mercedes-Benz Museum is a recommended place to visit. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 42,800 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 876,109 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Stuttgart is Wilhelma. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,034 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Stuttgart offers an experience you will remember.

Porsche Museum is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Stuttgart. This automobile museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,816 reviews.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg is the perfect spot for you!

Keep the evening going at Sonder Bar (Pinte), a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Destille, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Orange Cafe Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Heidelberg, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Heidelberg. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Palace. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Heidelberg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,117 visitors.

Heidelberger Marktplatz is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,651 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,389 reviews.

Heidelberg Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,439 reviews.

Germany is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Germany, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Germany. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Germany that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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 Heidelberg that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Weinstube Schnitzelbank offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to urban kitchen. Or, try Trattoria Toscana, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Heidelberg, Lenox Bar. P11 Café 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 Karl, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Speyer, Bad Dürkheim, and Mainz. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Mainz, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Speyer. This car ride takes around 33 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.

Speyer Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,020 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Speyer, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bad Dürkheim. This drive usually takes around 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Salinen/Gradierbau, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,296 reviews.

Mainz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bad Dürkheim behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Mainz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Mainz Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,183 reviews.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Mainz, 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 of exploring, unwind at the popular NOLAN’S Irish Pub, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. L'Osteria is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Steakhaus El Chico.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Wallenstein Cafe & Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Rheinstrand Mainz offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Nirgendwo provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Koblenz, Nürburg, and Brühl. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Mainz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is a great place to start. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,199 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Deutsches Eck. This headland has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,856 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nürburg. This car ride takes around 49 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nürburgring. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,289 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nürburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Phantasialand. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 89,377 reviews. Each year, 1,750,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

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.

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, Cologne 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 fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Toddy Tapper, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Soul Bar Cologne, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln 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 6 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 — Cologne. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bielefeld, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cologne Chocolate Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,704 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Market. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 reviews.

While in Cologne, we also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting around 5,000,000 visitors every year, Cologne Cathedral is one of the best places to visit. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 69,905 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,118 travelers, this zoo is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Cologne.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to GlückundSeligkeit, 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 New Orleans - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Nichtschwimmer promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Die Villa offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, THREE SIXTY Bielefeld is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cutie is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 4: Hamm, Nordkirchen, Wuppertal, and Sterkrade. You'll stay in Essen for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Hamm, 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 Bielefeld to Hamm may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hamm, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Maximilianpark Hamm. This popular amusement park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,092 visitors.

Nordkirchen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hamm behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Nordkirchen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Schloss Nordkirchen. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,573 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Wuppertal. This car ride takes around 1 hour 9 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,627 visitors.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Essen, 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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Pottsalat, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Traumkuh - Burger & Poutine is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Südrock rock pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, gentleM offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Diamond Cocktail Lounge, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Frankfurt, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Frankfurt, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Essen and Duisburg.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,866 visitors.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Tiger & Turtle. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,699 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,129 visitors.

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.

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

Discover the heart of Frankfurt through its culinary scene, starting with Im Herzen Afrikas. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Apfelwein Dax, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Ariston Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gleis 25. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt 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!

Make Palmengarten one of your first sightseeing stops in Frankfurt. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,050 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Alte Oper is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This concert hall is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,371 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Römerberg. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Iron Footbridge. A trip to this popular point of interest is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 23,044 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo enjoys an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,563 local and international travelers.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Frankfurt, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Frankfurt and the culture of past or present-day Germany.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Frankfurt 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 a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Chicago Meatpackers, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Zum Gemalten Haus, 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 Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

On day 10 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Mannheim, Schwetzingen, and Sinsheim. 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.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Luisenpark. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,481 visitors.

Next, make your way to Watertower of Mannheim. This water tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,043 reviews.

While in Mannheim, we also recommend a visit to Paradeplatz. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 7,567 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Schwetzingen, 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 Mannheim to Schwetzingen may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Schwetzingen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Schwetzingen Palace. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,896 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Schwetzingen and set your GPS to Sinsheim. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Sinsheim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Technikmuseum Sinsheim one of your first sightseeing stops in Sinsheim. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,645 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Carls Brauhaus, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Japanisches Restaurant KICHO - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Paulaner am alten Postplatz, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to SI-Centrum Stuttgart, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mata Hari is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, reBOOTS provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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 Stuttgart.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Stuttgart’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Germany. Keep the spirit of your trip to Germany alive with these special souvenirs.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Stuttgart is the remarkable Killesberg Tower. This observation tower and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,175 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Stuttgart, consider a top-rated restaurant like Ambiente Africa, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. ABACCO'S STEAKHOUSE Stuttgart is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is 5 Gourmet Restaurant & Bar, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Stuttgart.

You’ll then say farewell to Stuttgart. 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!