Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Bremen traveling west to Essen, Düsseldorf, Trier, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, and Cologne

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Bremen, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bremen and begin your adventure in Germany.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Town Musicians of Bremen is a great place to start. This literary work is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,811 visitors.

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

Discover the heart of Bremen through its culinary scene, starting with Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp. 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 Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Paulaner's a der Schlachte, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Visit Red Rock, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Wohnzimmer Bremen serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Bremen. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Eisen.

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

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bremen, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Bremen, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Knoops Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,920 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Universum Science Center. This science center has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,240 travelers.

Rhododendron-Park Bremen is another must-visit attraction. This renowned botanical garden offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,069 travelers, 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 Weserwehr. This well-loved tram stop boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,454 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Schnoor awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a street, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,197 previous visitors.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Germany sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Germany. Germany has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Germany that will fill you with new inspiration.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Vengo die Gemüseküche, 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 Cafe and Bar Celona - 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 Restaurant Luv, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2: Bremerhaven and Dortmund. You'll stay in Essen for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bremen and set your GPS to Bremerhaven. 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 50 min. Upon reaching Bremerhaven, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Bremerhaven Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,389 visitors.

Next, make your way to Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,574 reviews.

Dortmund’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bremerhaven behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 15 min. Dortmund welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Westfalenpark, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,165 reviews.

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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Essen, 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 Pottsalat, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Traumkuh - Burger & Poutine offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein is the perfect spot for you!

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Südrock rock pub, known for its lively atmosphere. GentleM is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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 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 Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Essen Minster. This extraordinary cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 883 visitors.

Next, make your way to UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,866 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

Continue your journey at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,129 travelers from near and far.

Düsseldorf 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Düsseldorf, 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.

Brewery Schumacher 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, Brewery im Füchschen offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at The ASH Düsseldorf, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Auberge Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Engel Rockbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,180 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Nord Park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,892 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Hofgarten. This english garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,417 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,759 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Rheinturm. This communication tower is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,916 visitors.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Germany. To have the best affordable travel experience in Germany, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Germany unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Germany.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Im Goldenen Kessel, 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 Konditorei Heinemann - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Sausalitos Dusseldorf promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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 — Aachen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Trier, where you'll be spending 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Düsseldorf, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aachen may take around 1 hour 1 min. Upon your arrival in Aachen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Carolus Thermen is a great place to start. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,303 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,568 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Aachen Cathedral. The imperial cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,155 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,891 reviews.

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

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste, 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 Restaurant Brasserie - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Restaurant Monte Petris promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Chrome!, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Studio 11 GBR is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Simplicissimus also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Heidelberg, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Heidelberg, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Trier, Nürburg, Koblenz, and Speyer.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Porta Nigra. This extraordinary city gate has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,367 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nürburg. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Journey into the unknown at Nürburgring, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,289 reviews.

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 Koblenz may take around 50 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Deutsches Eck. This extraordinary headland has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,856 visitors.

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

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, 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 Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Sonder Bar (Pinte), ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Destille is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Heidelberg and Rust. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Old Bridge Heidelberg. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,389 visitors.

Heidelberg Palace is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,117 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rust. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Silver Star. Previous visitors have rated this hypercoaster an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 7,829 reviews.

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt). Alternatively, go to Gleis 25, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring 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!

On day 9 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1: Frankfurt. You'll stay in Cologne for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Kick off the day at Römerberg, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,391 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Iron Footbridge. Iron Footbridge is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,044 reviews.

Zoo Frankfurt is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,563 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Alte Oper. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,371 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Palmengarten, a famous botanical garden in Frankfurt. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,050 travelers.

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 a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Mongo's Restaurant Köln, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Limani is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant.

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.

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

Day 10 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Germany. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Cologne! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Market. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,740 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting 5,000,000 visitors every year, Cologne Cathedral is one of the most popular places to visit in Cologne. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,118 travelers.

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.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Bangkok Thai Restaurant, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Servus Colonia Alpina is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Little Link.

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Sterkrade and Nordkirchen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Bremen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sterkrade. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gasometer Oberhausen, a remarkable gas holder where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,121 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at SEA LIFE Oberhausen. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 12,643 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Sterkrade, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nordkirchen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 9 min.

Make Schloss Nordkirchen your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,573 reviews.

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

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

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

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bremen.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bremen’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 Bremen is the remarkable Martinianleger. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,707 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Bremen, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at El Mundo Bremen, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Zum Platzhirsch features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Hegarty's Irish Pub Bremen is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Bremen. 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!