Cheap 13-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling east to Heidelberg, Mainz, Essen, Hamburg, Berlin, and Hanover

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

Journey into the unknown at Cologne Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 reviews. Every year, Cologne Cathedral welcomes more than 5,000,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Cologne Zoological Garden is a recommended place to visit. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cologne is Lindt Chocolate Museum. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cologne offers an experience you will remember.

Rheinboulevard is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Cologne. This promenade promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,235 reviews.

Heidelberg 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 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.

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.

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

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience 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 Stuttgart. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Mainz, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Heidelberg Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,486 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stuttgart, 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 Heidelberg to Stuttgart may take around 1 hour 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stuttgart, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Killesberg Tower. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,345 visitors.

Schloßplatz is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,914 visitors.

Mercedes-benz Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 876,109 people visit this top attraction every year. This automobile museum has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 43,234 visitors.

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

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

NOLAN’S Irish Pub offers delicious bites without straining your wallet.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Wallenstein Cafe & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rheinstrand Mainz for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nirgendwo is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Mainz, and Koblenz. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Essen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mainz Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,317 visitors.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

Continue your journey at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 travelers from near and far.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Essen, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Mr. Nam 68, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Südrock Rock Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gentlem is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Muenster. You'll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 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 Gelsenkirchen. Your travel time is around 10 min.

Make Nordstern Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Gelsenkirchen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,453 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking in Gelsenkirchen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Muenster. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Muenster, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schlossplatz. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Muenster, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,366 visitors.

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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Hamburg 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 Hamburg — 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Continue your journey at Miniatur Wunderland. This museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 travelers from near and far.

Hamburg is also the home of St. Michael's Church. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,524 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Planten Un Blomen. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Stadtpark. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

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.

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.

Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg 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, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at NOM vietnamese fusion food, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cafe Miller is an excellent example of a great bar in Hamburg offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Copa Cabana Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Hamburg. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Hamburg, Fontenay Bar is for you.

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

Day 8 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Germany. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Berlin and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Brandenburg Gate, a remarkable triumphal arch where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 162,714 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This holocaust memorial has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 45,507 travelers.

Potsdamer Platz is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 60,557 travelers, 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 Topography Of Terror. This well-loved military museum boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 36,601 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, German Museum Of Technology awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a technology museum, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,609 previous visitors.

Your discovery of Berlin does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Berlin on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, 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 Berlin that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte. Or, try Berlin TV Tower, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Berlin, Sharlie Cheen Bar. Berlin Icebar 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 The Curtain Club, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 9’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Berlin, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Berlin. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Treptower Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,355 visitors.

East Side Gallery is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 visitors.

Berlin Zoological Garden is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 63,593 visitors.

Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,717 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Berlin, 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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Restaurant Marjellchen, 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 Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Booze Bar Berlin, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Victoria Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 10 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Berlin, 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 Berlin, with 1 night to stay in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Alexanderplatz. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 213,494 reviews.

Fernsehturm Berlin is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This television tower is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,615 reviews.

Pergamon Museum is another outstanding experience in Berlin. Around 29,292 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 1,298,000 visitors annually.

If you long for more, Mauerpark is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,433 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Berlin. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Berlin offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Germany worth remembering for a lifetime.

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, Berlin 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 Curry 61, 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 Gasthaus Krombach - 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 SOY, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

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

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

Kick off the day at Berlin Wall Memorial, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,126 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Checkpoint Charlie. Checkpoint Charlie is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 83,167 reviews.

Großer Tiergarten is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,436 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Siegessäule. This victory column is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Charlottenburg Palace, a famous château in Berlin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,831 travelers.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sternwarte offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hanover.

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

Day 12 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 — Hanover, and Duisburg. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cologne, where you'll be spending 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Markthalle Hannover. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.

Hanover Zoo is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,161 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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