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

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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Alte Oper. This much-appreciated concert hall is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,602 reviews.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Frankfurt 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 Berliner Keller Frankfurt, 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 Im Herzen Afrikas - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Gute Stute and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Gleis 25, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Römer. This rathaus is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,117 visitors.

Römerberg is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,968 visitors.

Iron Footbridge is also highly recommended by travelers. This point of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,403 visitors.

Zoo Frankfurt is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,905 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Palmengarten. This botanical garden has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 travelers.

Cologne 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 culinary delights of Cologne, 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse 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 3 of your exciting road trip across Germany is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Cologne and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Cologne.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cologne, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Cologne Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 5,000,000 people visit this catholic cathedral every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brühl. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Brühl, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 visitors. Phantasialand welcomes around 1,750,000 visitors every year.

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

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, RheinZeit is the perfect spot for you!

Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent example of a great bar in Cologne offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, another of locals’ go-to bars in Cologne. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Cologne, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is for you.

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

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,566 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This headland has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Speyer. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Journey into the unknown at Technik Museum Speyer, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 24,541 reviews.

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.

Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg 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, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Bar Goodfellas. 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!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Heidelberg on day 5 of your affordable vacation in Germany. You’ll continue your stay in Heidelberg for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,612 reviews.

Next up is Heidelberg Castle. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,486 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heidelberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mannheim may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Mannheim, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Luisenpark. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Mannheim, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,730 visitors.

Watertower Of Mannheim is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,295 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Heidelberg and your accommodation.

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

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

Destille is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Orange Cafe Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Lenox Bar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Offenburg, and Sinsheim. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in 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 Offenburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Max Wenk Stairway. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 212 reviews.

Museum Ritterhaus is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 319 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Offenburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sinsheim. Your travel time is around 1 hour 25 min.

Take the opportunity to see Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,268 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Stuttgart. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Stuttgart, 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. Stuttgart has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Petit Coq. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jigger & Spoon offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Schwarz Weiß Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Stuttgart. You'll stay in Munich for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schloßplatz. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,914 visitors.

Next, make your way to Porsche Museum. This top attraction is an automobile museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Wilhelma. This zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,531 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Mercedes-benz Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 43,234 travelers. Around 876,109 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Munich 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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Garçon, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Zephyr Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Holy Spirit 1 Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 8 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 2 nights left in Munich, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Linderhof Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,178 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and set your GPS to Füssen. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Füssen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau one of your first sightseeing stops in Füssen. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,307 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Hohenschwangau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Füssen behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Hohenschwangau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Neuschwanstein Castle. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,520 reviews.

Next up is Hohenschwangau Castle. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,919 visitors.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Gasthaus Isarthor, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Zum Dürnbräu is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Zum Alten Markt, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Pusser's offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Munich, check out Ory Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Harry's.

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

On day 9 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 — 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nymphenburg Palace. This summer residence is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Munich, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 31,669 visitors.

Stachus is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,328 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Marienplatz. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 119,529 reviews.

Viktualienmarkt is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 58,600 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Deutsches Museum, perhaps the most famous national museum in Munich. This attraction welcomes around 1,250,000 visitors annually and is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 34,868 travelers.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Munich, 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.

Discover the heart of Munich through its culinary scene, starting with Le Clou. 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 Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Munich, check out The Boilerman Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Koli's Bar.

A road trip vacation in Munich can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination 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 1 wonderful destinations — Munich. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Nuremberg, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Odeonsplatz, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,385 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at English Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 61,807 travelers.

Bmw Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned automobile museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,183 travelers and attracting 250,000 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 Bmw Welt. This well-loved music venue boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 32,637 reviews. In a single year, approximately 3,000,000 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Olympiapark awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an olympic park, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 69,929 previous visitors.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Nuremberg has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

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

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

Day 11 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Frankfurt, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Frankfurt, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Nuremberg, and Würzburg.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nuremberg Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,212 reviews.

Next up is Schöner Brunnen. This well has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,679 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Handwerkerhof Nuremberg. This courtyard has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,449 reviews.

After soaking in Nuremberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Würzburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive in Würzburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Old Main Bridge. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,624 reviews.

Continue your journey at Marienberg Fortress. This fortress is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,044 travelers from near and far.

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.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Jambo Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Cosy Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Germany. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a 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 Frankfurt.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Frankfurt’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Frankfurt is the remarkable Nizza. This urban park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,282 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!