5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Baden-Baden and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Karlsruhe and 2 nights in Baden-Baden. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Karlsruhe, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Heidelberg Castle and Schloßplatz are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Triberg Waterfalls, learn more about the unique Old Bridge Heidelberg, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberger Marktplatz.
As you hit the open road and drive through Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, Stuttgart, and Tübingen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Karlsruhe - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Karlsruhe and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Karlsruhe is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Karlsruhe. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a top-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zum Kleinen Ketterer, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Phono Craftbeer Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Karlsruhe
- Baden-Baden
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Drive 173 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Philosophers' Way
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Heidelberg Palace
- Geroldsauer Wasserfall
- More
On day 2 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 Heidelberg and Baden-Baden. In the evening, you’ll end up in Baden-Baden, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Karlsruhe, including a hiking area, a historical landmark, a public square, a castle, a waterfall and much more! Start your day with a visit to Philosophers’ Way. This up-and-coming hiking area is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Old Bridge Heidelberg, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Karlsruhe 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 Heidelberger Marktplatz, a curiosity-inducing public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Heidelberg Castle and Geroldsauer Wasserfall.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Baden-Baden. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Baden-Baden. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Monte Christo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Einhorn | Café • Restaurant • Weinbar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Baden-Baden.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Havana Shisha Lounge, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 3
- Baden-Baden
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Drive 216 km, 4 hours
- Triberg Waterfalls
- Husen Castle
- Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein
- The Baden-Baden Casino
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Baden-Baden, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s itinerary in Baden-Baden covers several incredible sights, including a waterfall, a castle, a visitor center, a casino and much more! Start your adventure at Triberg Waterfalls. This locally renowned waterfall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Husen Castle, a must-see castle in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Nationalparkzentrum Ruhestein. This often recommended visitor center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to The Baden-baden Casino, where you can take in romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Baden-Baden and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Baden-Baden. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Fritz & Felix, a top-rated dining destination in Baden-Baden. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider RIVE GAUCHE BRASSERIE · Club Twenty One, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RIZZI The Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Baden-Baden this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Baden-Baden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Baden-Baden
- Karlsruhe
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Drive 310 km, 4 hours 24 min
- Schlossplatz
- Staatsgalerie Stuttgart
- Stadtmuseum Tübingen
- Märchenpfad Hechingen
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Stuttgart and Tübingen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Baden-Baden. Begin your sightseeing with Schloßplatz. This popular public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Baden-Baden, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Stadtmuseum Tübingen. This often recommended museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Märchenpfad Hechingen, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Karlsruhe, 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 Karlsruhe. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at kap, a top-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Enchilada Karlsruhe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Badisch Brauhaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Carlos Cocktailbar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Ubu for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 5
- Karlsruhe - Departure day
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- Marktplatz
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Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Marktplatz, an awe-inspiring public square before you head out.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Karlsruhe's best shopping area, Ettlinger Tor. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe.
Dine in style at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Osteria Karlsruhe boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!
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