Cheap 5-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling south to Frankfurt

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cologne and begin your adventure in Germany.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Old Market, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 reviews.

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.

Discover the heart of Cologne through its culinary scene, starting with Mongo's Restaurant Köln. 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 Limani, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Toddy Tapper, considered one of the best bars in Cologne. You can also enjoy drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Cologne.

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

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Cologne. 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 Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,118 visitors.

When you’re finished at Cologne Zoological Garden, head to Media Park Köln mbH. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,953 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Visiting Cologne Cathedral means you'll be one of 5,000,000 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,704 visitors.

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.

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.

Bangkok Thai Restaurant 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, Servus Colonia Alpina offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Little Link, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Nürburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Glees. Your travel time is around 28 min.

Kick off the day at Maria Laach Abbey, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This monastery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,710 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Glees, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Koblenz may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,856 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,199 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Nürburg. 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 1 hour 20 min. Upon reaching Nürburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Nürburgring. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,289 visitors.

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.

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

Im Herzen Afrikas 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, Apfelwein Dax offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Ariston Restaurant, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gleis 25 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 2 hours 10 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 89,377 visitors. Each year, around 1,750,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,391 visitors.

Iron Footbridge is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,044 visitors.

Zoo Frankfurt is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,563 visitors.

Palmengarten is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,050 reviews.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Jameson Pub Cologne, 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 Barney Vallely's - 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 Gruber's, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cologne.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Germany. Keep the spirit of your trip to Germany alive with these special souvenirs.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Cologne, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Peters Brauhaus, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Gaststätte Lommerzheim features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Craftbeer Corner Coeln is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!