6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Heidelberg

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a castle, a tramway, and a monument. Start your day at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This picture-perfect castle is a popular place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation. If instagrammable sites excite you, this tramway will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Deutsches Eck. This historic monument is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Stolzenfels Castle is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the romantic Sesselbahn Boppard. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing tramway.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the locally appreciated Philosophers’ Way, a romantic hiking area in Cologne. Next, go to Old Bridge Heidelberg.

After visiting Philosophers’ Way and Old Bridge Heidelberg, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. This visually striking church offers a unique experience. Heidelberg Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Scheffelterrasse, one of the most romantic places to visit in Cologne.

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.

As you explore more of Heidelberg, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sonder Bar (pinte), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Bar Goodfellas, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Heidelberg for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Baden-Baden to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready for an exciting day in Heidelberg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a heritage railway, a park, a museum, a casino and much more! Begin your adventure at Merkur Funicular Railway. This is a curiosity-inducing heritage railway you should not miss. Another must-see is Gönneranlage, a curiosity-inducing park in Heidelberg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Museum Frieder Burda. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Trinkhalle, another of the town’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Kur Park, a mesmerizing place of interest in the town. If time allows, add The Baden-baden Casino to your itinerary. This locally appreciated casino offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Heidelberg.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heidelberg.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at VINCIdue, 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 Essighaus. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Destille, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Orange Cafe Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Lenox Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Limburg a der Lahn and Aull. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Heidelberg, including a church, a historical landmark, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Limburg Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Alte Lahnbrücke Limburg, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Heidelberg 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 Katzenturm, an underrated monument in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Limburg A Der Lahn Altstadt and Schloss Oranienstein Diez.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!