9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dresden to Leipzig, Weimar, and Nuremberg
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 3 nights in Dresden, 1 night in Leipzig, 2 nights in Weimar, and 2 nights in Nuremberg. 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 Dresden, 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. Zwinger and Nuremberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Church Of Our Lady, learn more about the unique Monument To The Battle Of The Nations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marktplatz Leipzig.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dresden, Leipzig, Weimar, Erfurt, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Meissen, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Dresden - Arrival day
- More
- Golden Rider
- More
Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dresden and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dresden for 2 nights 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.
Dresden 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 Golden Rider, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dresden. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Dresden, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Luisenhof, Dresden? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bakery Wippler GmbH as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dresden.
Continue your lively evening at Hebeda's, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Blondes ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dresden
- More
Drive 2 km, 37 min
- Semperoper
- Zwinger
- Dresden Transport Museum
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
- Altstadt
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dresden. You’ll stay in Dresden for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
A visit to Altstadt in Dresden is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood 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.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dresden, including an opera house, a palace, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Semperoper. This notable opera house is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zwinger located in Dresden for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Dresden Transport Museum. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Church Of Our Lady. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this church. Next up is Brühl's Terrace, a highly recommended public square.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dresden's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Ristorante "Mamma Mia", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant brennNessel Dresden boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old Beams Pub & Dining. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dresden.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Gin House Dresden after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Madness Bar Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Nightfly Shisha And Cocktail is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 3
- Dresden
- Leipzig
- More
Drive 133 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Wildpark Leipzig
- Monument to the Battle of the Nations
- Botanical Garden Leipzig
- Bach-Museum Leipzig
- St. Thomas Church
- Marktplatz Leipzig
- More
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 Leipzig. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leipzig, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Dresden. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a wildlife reserve, a monument, a botanical garden, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Wildpark Leipzig. This is an increasingly popular wildlife reserve you should not miss. Another must-see is Monument To The Battle Of The Nations, a locally renowned monument in Dresden.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Botanical Garden Leipzig. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Bach-museum Leipzig, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at St. Thomas Church, a culturally significant place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Marktplatz Leipzig to your itinerary. This interesting public square offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Dresden.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Leipzig. Leipzig offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Leipzig. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at IMPERII, a popular restaurant in Leipzig. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Leipzig at Seminaris Hotel Leipzig, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Lerchennest Leipzig. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Leipzig tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mephisto stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Brick's Der Cocktail offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Skala is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 4
- Leipzig
- Weimar
- More
Drive 130 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Park an der Ilm
- Duchess Anna Amalia Library
- Weimarhaus
- Goethe–Schiller Monument
- Goethe's House
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Weimar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Weimar, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Park A Der Ilm, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Duchess Anna Amalia Library, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated library renowned for its photogenic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Leipzig by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Weimarhaus. This respected museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Leipzig experience. We also recommend visiting Goethe–schiller Monument, an increasingly popular monument. Nearby, you'll also find Goethe's House, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Weimar. 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 Weimar. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Smugglers Irish Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Weimar. If you're in the mood for something new, try Benediktiner Wirtshaus im joHanns Hof, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at SCHNITZELOASE Weimar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Weimar.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Zum Falken offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Zur Alten Laterne Weimar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Loft - Cocktailbar & Tapas is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Weimar and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Weimar
- More
Drive 57 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Bernd the bread
- Old Synagogue
- Domplatz
- Erfurt Cathedral
- Egapark
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Weimar, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Start your day with a visit to Bernd The Bread. This often recommended point of interest is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Old Synagogue, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Weimar 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 Domplatz, an interesting public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Erfurt Cathedral and Egapark.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Weimar and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Weimar. 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 delightful dinner at Restaurant Primavera, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café & Restaurant Frauentor? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cielo Weimar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Weimar.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Reservebank, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Peters Bar & Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Havana Club Weimar Bar & Pension is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 6
- Weimar
- Nuremberg
- More
Drive 254 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Ehekarussell
- Albrecht Dürer's House
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Schöner Brunnen
- More
On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nuremberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nuremberg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Weimar today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This symbolic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Ehekarussell and learn what makes this detailed art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Albrecht Dürer's House. After exploring the museum, head to Nuremberg Castle. This popular castle is a highlight in Weimar. As your day continues, stop by Schöner Brunnen, known for its masterful features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nuremberg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nuremberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Burgwächter, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Alte Küch'n & Im Keller beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nuremberg tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Irish Castle Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mata Hari Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Undecided Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 7
- Nuremberg
- More
Drive 126 km, 2 hours 1 min
- Bamberg Cathedral
- Bamberg old town
- old town hall
- Naturkundemuseum Bamberg
- More
On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Nuremberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Nuremberg for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bamberg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Immerse yourself in Nuremberg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bamberg Cathedral. This culturally significant church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the inviting features of Bamberg Old Town, a must-visit historical landmark in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rathaus, a beloved city hall. For a change of scene, check out Naturkundemuseum Bamberg, known for its photogenic features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nuremberg.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nuremberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Katzentempel Nürnberg, an iconic dining spot in Nuremberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel, a popular restaurant in Nuremberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan, a hidden gem nestled in Nuremberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bierwerk is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 8
- Nuremberg
- Dresden
- More
Drive 333 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Albrechtsburg
- Meissen Cathedral
- Marktplatz
- More
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 - Meissen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dresden. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Nuremberg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Albrechtsburg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Meissen Cathedral is your next stop. This intriguing church is one of the best-rated sights in Nuremberg.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Marktplatz. This respected public square is a sight to behold.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dresden's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante e Pensione La Campagnola, an iconic dining spot in Dresden. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Watzke am Goldenen Reiter, a popular restaurant in Dresden. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Carolaschlösschen Dresden, a hidden gem nestled in Dresden. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Sonderbar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Newtown Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Wohnzimmer Dresden. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 9
- Dresden - Departure day
- More
- The Grand Garden of Dresden
- More
Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dresden 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, begin at The Grand Garden Of Dresden. This well-known park is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dresden’s shopping center, the lively Neustadt District. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dresden.
You’ll then say farewell to Dresden. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.