9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Nuremberg

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Schildergasse in Cologne is a must on your agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This frequently visited point of interest is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rheinboulevard, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Museum Ludwig, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Cologne. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Cologne Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the grand atmosphere this church offers.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Heidelberg Castle. This extraordinary castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Kornmarkt, a stunning public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz, an up-and-coming public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Old Bridge Heidelberg. Round off your day at Philosophers’ Way, another gem in Cologne with eye-catching features to discover.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Heidelberg. Heidelberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heidelberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 4 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 Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau. In the evening, you’ll end up in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heidelberg today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Trinkhalle. This picture-perfect museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rose Society Garden (new Rose Garden) and learn what makes this stunning botanical garden unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Stadtgarten Freiburg. After exploring the park, head to Freiburger Münsterbauverein. This captivating church is a highlight in Heidelberg. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing Bertoldsbrunnen. Enjoy exploring this incredible public square at your own pace.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Freiburg im Breisgau, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Oberkirch, a highly-rated dining destination in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Süden, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Gallo Freiburg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Freiburg im Breisgau this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Am Funkeneck, known for its inviting atmosphere. Beat Bar Butzemann is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This worthwhile public square is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Medieval Crime Museum, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Freiburg im Breisgau on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to German Christmas Museum, a locally appreciated museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Castle Garden and Blade Gate.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nuremberg, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nuremberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures await you in Rothenburg ob der Tauber on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable museum, Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. Afterward, continue to Nuremberg Castle.

As you explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Albrecht Dürer's House. This increasingly popular museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Fleisch Bridge, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Nürnberg Altstadt and learn why this historical landmark is renowned as one of the city's most intriguing attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nuremberg. Nuremberg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nuremberg. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Burgwächter, a top-rated dining destination in Nuremberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Alte Küch'n & Im Keller, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nuremberg this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Irish Castle Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Mata Hari Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Undecided Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Würzburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Würzburg Residence, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Wurzburg Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile church renowned for its majestic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Nuremberg by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Old Main Bridge. This romantic historical landmark is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Marienberg Fortress also adds charm to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Suderman, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.