Cheap 6-Day Germany Road Trip from Stuttgart traveling north to Mainz, Cologne, and Heidelberg

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Stuttgart, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Stuttgart and begin your adventure in Germany.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schloßplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,914 visitors.

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, Stuttgart 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.

Tavern Waldhorn offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Café Le Théâtre. Or, try Wirtshaus Garbe, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Le Petit Coq, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Jigger & Spoon, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Schwarz Weiß Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stuttgart Tv Tower. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,754 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercedes-benz Museum. This top attraction is an automobile museum with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 43,234 visitors. Mercedes-benz Museum welcomes 876,109 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Wilhelma. This zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,531 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Porsche Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,681 travelers.

Mainz 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 Mainz offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at NOLAN’S Irish Pub, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wallenstein Cafe & Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rheinstrand Mainz provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Nirgendwo 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 3 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Koblenz, Keldung, and Brühl. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This extraordinary fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 visitors.

Next, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Koblenz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Keldung may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Keldung, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Eltz Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Keldung and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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 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.

Savor the culinary delights of Cologne, 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cologne Cathedral. Over 5,000,000 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

Old Market is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Cologne Zoological Garden is another outstanding experience in Cologne. Around 30,676 travelers have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Heidelberg, 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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sonder Bar (pinte), offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Café Bar Goodfellas. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 1 destination: Heidelberg. You'll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Heidelberg Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Heidelberg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Heidelberger Marktplatz is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,790 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Old Bridge Heidelberg. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,612 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Heidelberg Zoo. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 13,663 previous visitors.

Stuttgart 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.

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, Stuttgart 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Si-centrum Stuttgart, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mata Hari offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 6 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Stuttgart.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Stuttgart’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 Stuttgart is the remarkable Killesberg Tower. This observation tower and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,345 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Stuttgart, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Wielandshöhe, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Carls Brauhaus is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Stuttgart. 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!