Cheap 4-Day Germany Road Trip from Frankfurt to Cologne

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.

Kick off the day at Nizza, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,282 reviews.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Im Herzen Afrikas offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip is the perfect spot for you!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Frankfurt, Gute Stute. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Gleis 25, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 2 of your 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 — Frankfurt. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cologne, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Römer. This popular rathaus has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,117 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Römerberg. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Iron Footbridge. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,403 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,905 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palmengarten. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 travelers, this botanical garden is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Frankfurt.

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

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

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

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

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Cologne, and Brühl. You'll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

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, Lindt Chocolate Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cologne is Cologne Zoological Garden. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cologne offers an experience you will remember.

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.

Kick off the day at Phantasialand, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,750,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jambo Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Cosy Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 4 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 Alte Oper. This concert hall and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,602 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Frankfurt, consider a top-rated restaurant like Zu den 12 Aposteln, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Chicago Meatpackers is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Zum Gemalten Haus, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Frankfurt.

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!