Cheap One-Week Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling south to Heidelberg, Munich, Stuttgart, and Frankfurt

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cologne, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Around 5,000,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 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.

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

Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus. Or, try Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Bar Goodfellas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Heidelberg, and Pforzheim. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Munich, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Heidelberg Castle is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,486 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Heidelberger Marktplatz. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,790 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Heidelberg and set your GPS to Pforzheim. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Pforzheim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Wildpark Pforzheim. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,783 visitors.

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

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Garçon, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Zephyr Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Munich, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Stachus. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,328 reviews.

English Garden is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 61,807 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Eisbachwelle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 18,432 reviews.

Hohenschwangau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Munich behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Hohenschwangau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Hohenschwangau Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,919 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Neuschwanstein Castle is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,520 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Munich and your accommodation.

Savor the culinary delights of Munich, 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.

Gasthaus Isarthor 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, Zum Dürnbräu offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Zum Alten Markt, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Munich. You'll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Viktualienmarkt. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 58,600 reviews.

Next up is Marienplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 119,529 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Bmw Museum. This automobile museum has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,183 reviews. Every year, 250,000 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Bmw Welt is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This music venue has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,637 reviews. This popular attraction gets 3,000,000 visits every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Olympiapark. This olympic park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 69,929 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Stuttgart, 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.

Continue your lively evening at Le Petit Coq, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Jigger & Spoon is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Schwarz Weiß Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 6 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 — Stuttgart. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Frankfurt, where you'll be spending 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Schloßplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,914 reviews.

Continue your journey at Mercedes-benz Museum. This automobile museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 43,234 travelers from near and far. Approximately 876,109 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Stuttgart.

Stuttgart is also the home of Wilhelma. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 33,531 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Porsche Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,681 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Frankfurt 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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gute Stute. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gleis 25, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Frankfurt, Königswinter, and Brühl. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 visitors.

When you’re finished at Römerberg, head to Iron Footbridge. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,403 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palmengarten. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,461 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Frankfurt, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Schloss Drachenburg. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,667 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Journey into the unknown at Phantasialand, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 reviews. Every year, Phantasialand welcomes more than 1,750,000 curious visitors.

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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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