7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Koblenz, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, and Freiburg im Breisgau
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cologne, Koblenz, Braubach, Biebernheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg.
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 Cologne, 1 night in Koblenz, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Baden-Baden, and 1 night in Freiburg im Breisgau. 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 Cologne, 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 Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Koblenz, Braubach, Biebernheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, Freiburg im Breisgau, 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
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Cologne Cathedral
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Welcome to Cologne, 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 Cologne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Cologne 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 Cologne Cathedral, 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 Cologne. 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.
Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
- Koblenz
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Drive 113 km, 2 hours 22 min
- Rheinboulevard
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cologne and Koblenz. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Koblenz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Rheinboulevard. This worthwhile boardwalk provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Lindt Chocolate Museum, a visually striking museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a popular castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Deutsches Eck.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Koblenz, 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 Koblenz's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Café Konditorei Werrmann, a top-rated dining destination in Koblenz. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Altes Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Koblenz this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Spökes. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dubai Shisha Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 3
- Koblenz
- Heidelberg
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Drive 201 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Marksburg
- Rheinfels Castle
- Heidelberg Zoo
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Braubach, Biebernheim, and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Koblenz. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a zoo, a historical landmark, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Marksburg. This is an increasingly popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Rheinfels Castle, an increasingly popular castle in Koblenz.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Heidelberg Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Old Bridge Heidelberg, another of the town’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Heidelberger Marktplatz, a romantic place of interest in the town.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Bar Goodfellas ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Head back to your accommodation in Heidelberg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Heidelberg
- Baden-Baden
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Philosophers' Way
- Heidelberg Palace
- Scheffelterrasse
- Gönneranlage
- The Baden-Baden Casino
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Heidelberg and Baden-Baden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Baden-Baden, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heidelberg, including a hiking area, a castle, an observation deck, a park, a casino and much more! Start your day at Philosophers’ Way. This standout hiking area is a worthwhile place to see in Heidelberg. Then, wander over to Heidelberg Castle. If symbolic sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Scheffelterrasse. This enchanting observation deck 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, Gönneranlage is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the romantic The Baden-baden Casino. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated casino.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Baden-Baden. 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 Baden-Baden. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Monte Christo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Einhorn | Café • Restaurant • Weinbar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Baden-Baden tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Havana Shisha Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Say good night to Baden-Baden and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Baden-Baden
- Freiburg im Breisgau
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Drive 182 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Triberg Waterfalls
- Husen Castle
- Augustiner Museum
- Freiburg Minster
- Stadtgarten Freiburg
- Bertoldsbrunnen
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On day 5 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 Triberg im Schwarzwald, Hausach, and Freiburg im Breisgau. In the evening, you’ll end up in Freiburg im Breisgau, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Baden-Baden on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Triberg Waterfalls is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic waterfall before continuing your journey. Husen Castle is your next stop. This up-and-coming castle is one of the best-rated sights in Baden-Baden.
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 Augustiner Museum. This historic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Freiburger Münsterbauverein and Stadtgarten Freiburg. If time allows, end your day with Bertoldsbrunnen, a photogenic public square that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Freiburg im Breisgau, 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 Freiburg im Breisgau, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Oberkirch, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Süden offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, El Gallo Freiburg is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Am Funkeneck, known for its inviting atmosphere. Beat Bar Butzemann is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
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
- Freiburg im Breisgau
- Cologne
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Drive 686 km, 7 hours 41 min
- Plönlein
- Würzburg Residence
- Four Tubes Fountain
- Old Main Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Würzburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This underrated public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Würzburg Residence, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Four Tubes Fountain, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Freiburg im Breisgau. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Old Main Bridge. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this historical landmark offers.
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 delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.
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 recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 7
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Old Market
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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 Cologne 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, we recommend visiting Old Market, an enchanting public square before you head out.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne's best shopping area, Schildergasse. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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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