Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Frankfurt to Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, Koblenz, Düsseldorf, Essen, Hamburg, and Dortmund and surrounding area

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

Frankfurt is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Frankfurt is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Make Alte Brücke your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this road bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,029 reviews.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Berliner Keller Frankfurt, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Im Herzen Afrikas is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Frankfurt, Gute Stute. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) 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 Gleis 25, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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 1 night. On your way to Heidelberg, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Frankfurt.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Frankfurt Cathedral. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,990 visitors.

When you’re finished at Frankfurt Cathedral, head to Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt. This one-of-a-kind art museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,028 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Iron Footbridge. This sightseeing destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,403 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Palmengarten. This famous botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,461 travelers.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Heidelberg, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Café Bar Goodfellas, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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 — Heidelberg, and Rust. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Karlsruhe, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Theodor-heuss-brücke, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 295 reviews.

Set your GPS to Rust and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rust beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Silver Star, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This hypercoaster is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 7,899 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Europa-park. Europa-park is an amusement park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 166,036 reviews. Attracting more than 5,700,000 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Karlsruhe, 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Phono Craftbeer Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Electric Eel for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Karlsruhe. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Karlsruhe, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stuttgart. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Mercedes-benz Museum. This automobile museum typically receives around 876,109 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 43,234 reviews.

Continue your journey at Wilhelma. This zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,531 travelers from near and far.

Stuttgart is also the home of Schloßplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,914 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Porsche Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

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

Kap 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, Enchilada Karlsruhe offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Badisch Brauhaus, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Carlos Cocktailbar offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Karlsruhe, check out Ubu. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar.

A road trip vacation in Stuttgart can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination 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 Speyer, Keldung, and Koblenz. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Koblenz, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Karlsruhe, 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 42 min.

Drop by the renowned Technik Museum Speyer. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,541 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Speyer Cathedral. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,279 visitors, this catholic cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Keldung. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eltz Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,367 visitors.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This much-appreciated headland is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

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

Altes Brauhaus 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, Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Spökes, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dubai Shisha Lounge offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Koblenz. Excalibur - The Rock Cafe 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 cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Brühl, and Cologne. You'll stay in Düsseldorf 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. Brühl, 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 Koblenz to Brühl may take around 1 hour 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 visitors. Each year, around 1,750,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cologne. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lindt Chocolate Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Cologne Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. The attraction welcomes 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

The attraction gets an estimated 5,000,000 visitors every year.

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Engelchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Cherie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Auberge Rock Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Düsseldorf, and Duisburg. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Essen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Burgplatz. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,559 reviews.

Next up is Rheinpromenade. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,033 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Schloss Benrath. This park has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Düsseldorf to Duisburg may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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 27,144 reviews.

Continue your journey at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 travelers from near and far.

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 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, Essen 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.

Mr. Nam 68 offers delicious bites without straining your wallet.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Südrock Rock Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gentlem offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Diamond Cocktail Lounge. 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 8 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Hamburg, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Hamburg, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Essen, and Muenster.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

Red Dot Design Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This design museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,831 visitors.

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 Muenster. Your travel time is around 1 hour 9 min.

Make Schlossplatz your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,366 reviews.

Hamburg 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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar 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 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, 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 Hamburg, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Drop by the renowned St. Pauli Piers. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Elbe Tunnel. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 visitors, this road tunnel deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Planten Un Blomen. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Hagenbeck Zoo. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,852 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Stadtpark. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Hamburg.

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

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cafe Miller offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Hamburg, check out Copa Cabana Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Fontenay Bar.

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 — Hamburg, and Behringen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. Previous visitors have rated this concert hall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Miniatur Wunderland is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Hamburg Dungeon. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hamburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Behringen may take around 44 min. Upon your arrival in Behringen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Behringer Heide. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 302 visitors.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Dortmund 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 Meeting, die Café-Bar, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vater&sohn offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Central Bar & More Dortmund 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 11 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bonn, and Königswinter. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bonn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bonn beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,753 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Rheinaue. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,543 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bonn and set your GPS to Königswinter. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Schloss Drachenburg one of your first sightseeing stops in Königswinter. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Jambo Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Cosy Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Frankfurt is the remarkable Alte Oper. This concert hall and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,602 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Frankfurt, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Zu den 12 Aposteln, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Chicago Meatpackers features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Zum Gemalten Haus is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!