7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling east to Koblenz, Heidelberg, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Boppard, Aulhausen, Rudesheim am Rhein, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Düsseldorf, 1 night in Koblenz, 2 nights in Heidelberg, and 1 night in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. 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 Düsseldorf, 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. Cologne Cathedral and Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Deutsches Eck, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Main Bridge.
As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Boppard, Aulhausen, Rudesheim am Rhein, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg, 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!
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Day 1
- Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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- Burgplatz
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Welcome to Düsseldorf, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Düsseldorf's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Düsseldorf 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 Burgplatz, or just 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 Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brewery Schumacher, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Brewery im Füchschen offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The ASH Düsseldorf. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Engelchen stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Auberge Rock Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dusseldorf
- Koblenz
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 42 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Koblenz, 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 Koblenz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. After the sightseeing destination, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Deutsches Eck. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this monument.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Koblenz. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Koblenz, 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Konditorei Werrmann, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Altes Brauhaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Koblenz.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Spökes, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dubai Shisha Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 3
- Koblenz
- Heidelberg
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Drive 227 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Sesselbahn Boppard
- Rossel Castle
- Die Drosselgasse
- Neckarwiese (Heidelberg)
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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 Boppard, Aulhausen, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Heidelberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Koblenz. Begin your sightseeing with Sesselbahn Boppard. This intriguing tramway is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Rossel Castle, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Koblenz, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Die Drosselgasse. This locally appreciated street is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Neckarwiese (heidelberg), another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heidelberg. 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 lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sonder Bar (pinte), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 4
- Heidelberg
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Philosophers' Way
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Heidelberg Palace
- Heidelberg Zoo
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Heidelberg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heidelberg allows for both. Start by heading to Philosophers’ Way. This locally appreciated hiking area provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Old Bridge Heidelberg, a respected historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, an intriguing church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Heidelberger Marktplatz. Not far away from the public square, you will find the photogenic Heidelberg Zoo, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Heidelberg Castle, another gem in Heidelberg with majestic features to discover.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heidelberg's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, VINCIdue is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Essighaus. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Destille stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Orange Cafe Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Lenox Bar 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 5
- Heidelberg
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 175 km, 2 hours 31 min
- Gallows Gate
- Blade Gate
- Burggarten
- Medieval Crime Museum
- Plönlein
- Town Hall
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 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 at Gallows Gate. Then, wander over to Blade Gate. Nearby, you’ll also find Castle Garden. This stunning park is a favorite among visitors.
Heidelberg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Medieval Crime Museum is a beloved spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the standout Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile public square. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Heidelberg's top attractions with a visit to Town Hall.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Rothenburg ob der Tauber and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 6
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 397 km, 5 hours 6 min
- Würzburg Residence
- Würzburger Cathedral
- Four Tubes Fountain
- Old Main Bridge
- Marienberg Fortress
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Würzburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the up-and-coming Würzburg Residence, a romantic palace in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Next, go to Wurzburg Cathedral.
After visiting Würzburg Residence and Wurzburg Cathedral, have a stroll along Rothenburg ob der Tauber's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Four Tubes Fountain. This symbolic monument offers a unique experience. Old Main Bridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Marienberg Fortress, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Studio 1, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sakura Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Engel Rockbar, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 7
- Dusseldorf - Departure day
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- Tritonenbrunnen in Düsseldorf
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Düsseldorf’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Carlsplatz Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.
Dine in style at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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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