Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg, Cologne, Frankfurt, Würzburg, Munich, and Stuttgart and surrounding area

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schlossgarten. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Karlsruhe, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,162 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 Karlsruhe that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Discover the heart of Karlsruhe through its culinary scene, starting with Hotel Rio Karlsruhe. 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 Zum Kleinen Ketterer, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Phono Craftbeer Bar, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Electric Eel, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Jean-claude Cocktail Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

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

When you're ready to see some sights, State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe is a great place to start. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,255 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Günther-klotz-anlage. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,134 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,946 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 your preferred affordable place 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 Heidelberg that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your foodie adventure at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

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

Ready for day 3 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Heidelberg and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Heidelberg Castle. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 54,486 reviews.

Old Bridge Heidelberg is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,612 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Mannheim. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Watertower Of Mannheim. This extraordinary water tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,295 visitors.

Next, make your way to Luisenpark. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,730 reviews.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Heidelberg, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

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

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Speyer, and Koblenz. 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.

After soaking in Heidelberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Speyer. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Speyer, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Technik Museum Speyer. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 24,541 reviews.

Next up is Speyer Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,279 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Speyer, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Koblenz. Your travel time is around 1 hour 54 min.

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 34,555 visitors.

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.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Cologne, and Brühl. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Each year, around 5,000,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Phantasialand is a great place to start. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Phantasialand attracts more than 1,750,000 visitors every year.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gute Stute. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gleis 25 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!

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Würzburg, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Würzburg, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Frankfurt.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Römerberg. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,968 reviews.

Iron Footbridge 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 23,403 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Alte Oper. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,602 reviews.

Palmengarten is another outstanding experience in Frankfurt. Around 19,461 travelers have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Zoo Frankfurt is not far away. This zoo is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,905 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Kult, 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 Schönborn - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Hasenstall offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Loma is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Würzburg, and Nuremberg. You'll stay in Munich for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Kick off the day at Wurzburg Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,099 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Old Main Bridge. Old Main Bridge is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,624 reviews.

Marienberg Fortress is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,044 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nuremberg, 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 Würzburg to Nuremberg may take around 1 hour 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nuremberg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Nuremberg Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,212 reviews.

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.

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.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Garçon, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Zephyr Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Holy Spirit 1 Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 8’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Munich, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Munich. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Eisbachwelle. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 18,432 visitors.

When you’re finished at Eisbachwelle, head to English Garden. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,807 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Bmw Museum. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,183 visitors. Visiting Bmw Museum means you'll be one of 250,000 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Bmw Welt. This music venue is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,637 visitors. Around 3,000,000 travelers visit Bmw Welt every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Olympiapark. This famous olympic park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 69,929 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 Gasthaus Isarthor. 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 Zum Dürnbräu, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Zum Alten Markt, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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.

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

Day 9 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 Stuttgart, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Drop by the renowned Marienplatz. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 119,529 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Viktualienmarkt. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 58,600 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Deutsches Museum. Hosting around 1,250,000 visitors every year, the fascinating Deutsches Museum is one of the best places to visit in Munich. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 34,868 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Stachus. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,328 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Nymphenburg Palace. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,669 travelers, this summer residence is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Munich.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Stuttgart, 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Petit Coq, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Jigger & Spoon provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Schwarz Weiß Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 means another chance to make the best memories in Stuttgart. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Stuttgart and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Drop by the renowned Mercedes-benz Museum. This popular automobile museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 43,234 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 876,109 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Wilhelma. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,531 visitors, this zoo deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Schloßplatz. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,914 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Porsche Museum. This automobile museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,681 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, 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 Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu - 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 Riedsee, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Visit Si-centrum Stuttgart, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Mata Hari serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Stuttgart. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Mocha Espresso & Wine.

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Sinsheim, Rust, and Offenburg. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Karlsruhe, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sinsheim, 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 Stuttgart to Sinsheim may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sinsheim, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This popular technology museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,268 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sinsheim, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rust may take around 1 hour 41 min. Upon your arrival in Rust, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Silver Star. This hypercoaster is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 7,899 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Rust, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Offenburg. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Max Wenk Stairway. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 212 visitors.

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.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Carlos Cocktailbar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Ubu offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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 Karlsruhe.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Karlsruhe’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Karlsruhe is the remarkable Marktplatz. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,876 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Karlsruhe, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, L'Osteria Karlsruhe features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Café Palaver is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!