6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling south to Karlsruhe and Heidelberg

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This stunning wildlife reserve is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Rheinpromenade, a must-visit boardwalk in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, an up-and-coming boardwalk. For a change of scene, check out Rheinturm, known for its visually striking features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Flair, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for french and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Say good night to Düsseldorf and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Cologne and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Karlsruhe, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cologne. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cologne Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This interesting museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Deutsches Eck, a locally renowned monument in Koblenz. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Karlsruhe. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Karlsruhe by reserving a table at Bistro Margarete. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional regional menu. For a different taste experience, head to sein, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Phono Craftbeer Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Electric Eel is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Karlsruhe and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Heidelberg and Königswinter. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Heidelberg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a castle, and a historical landmark. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Heidelberger Marktplatz. Just a short distance away is Heidelberg Castle, a culturally significant castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Old Bridge Heidelberg, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking in Heidelberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Königswinter. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 25 min. When you arrive in Königswinter, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Königswinter should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Im Goldenen Kessel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konditorei Heinemann. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!