Cheap 12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe traveling west to Freiburg im Breisgau, Frankfurt, Aachen, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Cologne, and Koblenz

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Karlsruhe. You'll stay in Freiburg im Breisgau for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Set out on a day brimming with a visually striking, an idyllic, a breathtaking, and a romantic. Start at the increasingly popular State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe, an eye-catching museum in Karlsruhe. Next, go to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe.

After visiting State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe and Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe, take time to explore Karlsruhe's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Japangarten. This mesmerizing botanical garden offers a unique experience.

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

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. Freiburg im Breisgau has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Am Funkeneck after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Beat Bar Butzemann, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Freiburg im Breisgau!

Day 4’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Frankfurt. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a serene, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, and a respected. Whether you decide to explore Frankfurt on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palmengarten is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene botanical garden before continuing your journey. Alte Oper is your next stop. This locally renowned opera house is one of the best-rated sights in Frankfurt.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Zoo Frankfurt. This gorgeous zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Städel Museum.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurant Lohninger, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Apfelwein Dax offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Ariston Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Frankfurt, Barkello Café Bar Lounge. Alternatively, visit Jambo Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The Cosy Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Aachen, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Aachen, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Frankfurt and Bonn.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Frankfurt, including a monument and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This interesting monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Römerberg, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Frankfurt, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bonn may take around 1 hour 57 min. Upon your arrival in Bonn, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Rheinaue, a locally renowned park in Bonn. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This popular museum is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

Café Middelberg offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to AKL Libanesisches Restaurant.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Die Wg, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Gin Library is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Domkeller provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Aachen, including a monument, a church, and a spa. Start your day at Elisenbrunnen. This symbolic monument is a worthwhile place to see in Aachen. Then, wander over to Aachen Cathedral. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Carolus Thermen. This romantic spa is a favorite among visitors.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aachen behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, an astonishing amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Königswinter, 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 Brühl to Königswinter may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Königswinter, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Engelchen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Cherie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Solingen. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Solingen. Your travel time is around 46 min.

Head to Burg Castle, an interesting castle in Solingen. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Oberhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Oberhausen beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Gasometer Oberhausen, a captivating museum that draws attention for its stunning features.

When you’ve had your share of Oberhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 17 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a notable park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Duisburg Zoo, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Coffee Fellows, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Bar Studio 1 and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Sakura Bar 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 Engel Rockbar, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 8 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 4 wonderful destinations — Essen, Bottrop, Gelsenkirchen, and Nordkirchen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Essen, 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 Essen may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Essen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a captivating museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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 Bottrop. Your travel time is around 18 min.

Begin your journey at Tetrahedron In Bottrop and explore the eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gelsenkirchen. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Nordstern Park is an increasingly popular park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its noteworthy features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Dortmund 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 Dortmund, 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 Dortmund through its culinary scene, starting with Meeting, die Café-Bar. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vater&sohn, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Loka Lounge Dortmund, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Central Bar & More Dortmund likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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

Today’s route brings an instagrammable, a historic, a romantic, a scenic, an enchanting, and a remarkable. The first attraction of today is German Football Museum. This intriguing museum is an eye-catching place to see in Dortmund. Continue your discovery at Westfalenpark, an eye-catching park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dortmund, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This intriguing botanical garden offers a serene encounter with Dortmund. Dortmund Zoo is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dortmund.

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.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Germany by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Cologne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

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.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Cologne and Keldung. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Koblenz, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a historic, a monumental, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Old Market. This captivating public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Keldung. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Eltz Castle is a notable castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Café Konditorei Werrmann, 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 Altes Brauhaus - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Spökes, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dubai Shisha Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 11 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Karlsruhe, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Karlsruhe, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Koblenz, Speyer, and Mannheim.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a standout, a culturally significant, and a remarkable. Whether you decide to explore Koblenz on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Deutsches Eck is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic monument before continuing your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Speyer, 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 Speyer may take around 1 hour 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Speyer, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Technik Museum Speyer, a notable aviation museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Speyer and set your GPS to Mannheim. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Mannheim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Luisenpark, a locally renowned park known for its mesmerizing features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Watertower Of Mannheim, a well-known monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Karlsruhe 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.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Carlos Cocktailbar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Ubu offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Karlsruhe. Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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