9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Munich

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Heidelberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Heidelberg Castle. This impressive castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is German Pharmacy Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Heidelberg Tun, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Cologne. This wine cellar is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. Wander around and soak in the majestic atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz, a top-rated public square that adds another dimension to your day.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Heidelberg tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Bar Goodfellas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 3 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 Heidelberg and Schwetzingen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the curiosity-inducing Scheffelterrasse, an enchanting observation deck in Heidelberg. Next, go to Old Bridge Heidelberg.

After visiting Scheffelterrasse and Old Bridge Heidelberg, have a stroll along Heidelberg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Philosophers’ Way. This romantic hiking area offers a unique experience. Neckarwiese (heidelberg) is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Heidelberg Zoo, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Heidelberg. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Schwetzingen Palace.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante Santa Lucia, 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 VINCIdue, 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 Essighaus, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Heidelberg. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Heidelberg. Next, head to Medieval Crime Museum, an up-and-coming museum, known for its standout features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Castle Garden. This romantic park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find German Christmas Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Blade Gate is the perfect place to start. This point of interest is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Next, head to Rothenburger Tor, a worthwhile historical landmark, known for its stunning features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Dinkelsbühl Altstadt. This standout historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Cathedral Of Saint George and Haus Der Geschichte Dinkelsbuhl. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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.

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.

Dive into day 8 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Munich, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Handwerkerhof Nuremberg, an intriguing handicraft store in the city. Then, head to Schöner Brunnen and soak in the ambiance of this respected monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Munich, and when you are ready for more, go to Nuremberg Castle. This is one of the city’s most interesting culturally significant spots of interest.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Soul Bar Cologne after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!