13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Munich, Füssen, Freiburg im Breisgau, Trier, Aachen, Cologne, and Bernkastel-Kues and surrounding area

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 Karlsruhe, Sinsheim, and Ulm. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Karlsruhe today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This enchanting zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Technikmuseum Sinsheim and learn what makes this standout aviation museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Ulm Minster.

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

As you explore more of Munich, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Munich by reserving a table at Atelier. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative french cuisine. For a different taste, head over to EssZimmer, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Munich.

Continue your lively evening at Garçon, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Zephyr Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Holy Spirit 1 Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Munich, 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 Füssen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Munich. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Marienplatz is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most iconic places to visit in Munich. Next, head to Viktualienmarkt, a spectacular food market, known for its instagrammable 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 English Garden. This romantic park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Olympiapark and Bmw Welt. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Füssen. Füssen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Dine in style at Bayrish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hohenschwangau and Stuttgart. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Füssen on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known castle, Hohenschwangau Castle. Afterward, continue to Neuschwanstein Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Füssen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Marienbrücke. This intriguing sightseeing destination is an essential stop. Following that, head to Schloßplatz, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Freiburg im Breisgau by securing a table at Eichhalde. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional italian and classic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Colombi Restaurant Zirbelstube, famous for its scrumptious classic french and mediterranean dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wolfshöhle, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic cuisine in Freiburg im Breisgau. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Am Funkeneck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Beat Bar Butzemann. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Head back to your accommodation in Freiburg im Breisgau and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Freiburg im Breisgau for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Freiburg im Breisgau’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Seepark Betzenhausen. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Freiburger Münsterbauverein, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Stadtgarten Freiburg, an intriguing park. For a change of scene, check out Bertoldsbrunnen, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Martin's Gate. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kucci, a top-rated dining destination in Freiburg im Breisgau. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Goldener Anker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Martinsbräu. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Freiburg im Breisgau this evening.

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 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Saarbrücken, Völklingen, and Orscholz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Trier, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Saarbrücken Castle, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Völklingen Ironworks, another must-visit landmark and intriguing museum renowned for its respected features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Freiburg im Breisgau by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Treetop Walk Saarschleife. This instagrammable canopy walk is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Freiburg im Breisgau experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Trier, 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 Trier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Trier by reserving a table at Bagatelle. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french contemporary and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to BECKER'S, recognized for its delicious creative and classic dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Chrome!, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Studio 11 Gbr, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Simplicissimus provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Trier, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Trier. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Deutsch-französischer Garten is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most beloved places to visit in Trier. Next, head to Alte Brücke, a locally appreciated historical landmark, known for its romantic 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 Basilica Of St. John The Baptist, Saarbrücken. This photogenic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Wildpark. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Flieten Franz, a top-rated dining destination in Trier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Donna Mia Trier, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bitburger Wirtshaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Trier this evening.

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

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 3 vibrant destinations - Ottweiler, Illingen, and Landsweiler-Reden. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aachen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Trier. Begin your sightseeing with Täler Der Ill Und Ihrer Nebenbäche. This beloved nature reserve is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Burg Illingen, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Trier, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Gondwana - The Prehistorium. This increasingly popular dinosaur park is a traveler-favorite.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Middelberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Kanpai Sushi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Aachen.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Die Wg, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Gin Library offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aachen. Domkeller is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 9 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 Aachen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Aachen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aachen Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey. Elisenbrunnen is your next stop. This locally appreciated monument is one of the best-rated sights in Aachen.

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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This standout park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Duisburg Zoo.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 10 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a zoo, a church, a public square, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Cologne Zoological Garden. This captivating zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cologne Cathedral located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Old Market. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this museum.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 11 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Koblenz, Keldung, and Trier, 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 Bernkastel-Kues. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a well-known castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Deutsches Eck, enchanting visitors with its detailed appeal. Continue your exploration at Eltz Castle. This castle is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Porta Nigra.

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

As you explore more of Bernkastel-Kues, 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 Burgruine Landshut, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Alt Bernkastel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Speyer and Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Karlsruhe, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bernkastel-Kues, including a church, an aviation museum, a castle, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Speyer Cathedral. This popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Technik Museum Speyer located in Bernkastel-Kues for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Heidelberg Castle. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this historical landmark.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, sein is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at TAWA YAMA FINE. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern and international cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Carlos Cocktailbar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Ubu is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!