Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling south to Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Munich, Heidelberg, and Mainz

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral gets 5,000,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Malakoffturm. This tower has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 174 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Gute Stute, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gleis 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Frankfurt, and Würzburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Nuremberg, where you'll stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,968 reviews.

Continue your journey at Iron Footbridge. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,403 travelers from near and far.

Frankfurt is also the home of Palmengarten. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 visitors.

Set your GPS to Würzburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Würzburg beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Marienberg Fortress, a remarkable fortress where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,044 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Old Main Bridge. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,624 travelers.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Irish Castle Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Mata Hari Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Undecided Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Munich, where you'll be staying for 4 nights. On your way to Munich, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Nuremberg, and Dachau.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schöner Brunnen, a remarkable well where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,679 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Nuremberg Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,212 travelers.

Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is another must-visit attraction. This renowned military museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 15,731 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nuremberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dachau may take around 1 hour 40 min. Upon your arrival in Dachau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. This cemetery is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dachau, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,414 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Munich. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Munich, 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, 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Garçon, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Holy Spirit 1 Bar 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 itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Munich, 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 Munich, with 3 nights to stay in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Stachus, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,328 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Bmw Museum. This automobile museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,183 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 250,000 people visit it every year.

Bmw Welt is another must-visit attraction. This renowned music venue offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,637 travelers and attracting 3,000,000 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 Olympiapark. This well-loved olympic park boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 69,929 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, English Garden awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 61,807 previous visitors.

Touring the best attractions in Germany offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Germany you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Germany. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Germany.

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

Start your foodie adventure at Gasthaus Isarthor, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Zum Dürnbräu, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Zum Alten Markt, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Munich, Pusser's. Alternatively, visit Ory Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Harry's, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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 6 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 — 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Museum. This national museum gets 1,250,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 34,868 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Viktualienmarkt. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,600 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Marienplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 119,529 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Odeonsplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,385 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Nymphenburg Palace. This summer residence is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,669 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.

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 Le Clou, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at The Boilerman Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Koli's Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Munich. You’ll stay in Munich for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hohenschwangau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 46 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Neuschwanstein Castle. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,520 reviews.

Marienbrücke is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,539 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Hohenschwangau Castle. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,919 reviews.

After soaking in Hohenschwangau’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Füssen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 9 min. When you arrive in Füssen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau. This spa is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,307 visitors.

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

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Trachtenvogl, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Munich Soup Kitchen is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Keg Bar, considered one of the best bars in Munich. You can also enjoy drinks at Stammbar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Bar Lux, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Munich.

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

Take the opportunity to see Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,059 visitors.

Old Bridge Heidelberg is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,612 travelers.

Heidelberg is also the home of Heidelberger Marktplatz. Around 7,790 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Heidelberg Castle. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 54,486 reviews, a visit to this museum is a great idea.

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

Kick off the day at Technik Museum Speyer, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,541 reviews.

Mainz 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 Mainz 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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at NOLAN’S Irish Pub, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Wallenstein Cafe & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Rheinstrand Mainz is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Nirgendwo 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 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Koblenz, Keldung, and Brühl. 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 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Mainz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,566 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Deutsches Eck. Deutsches Eck is a headland with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Koblenz and set your GPS to Keldung. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Keldung, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Eltz Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Keldung. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,367 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Keldung, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Phantasialand. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Attracting more than 1,750,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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