10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling south to Koblenz, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, and Munich

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known zoo, Cologne Zoological Garden. Afterward, continue to Museum Ludwig, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Duftmuseum Im Farina Haus, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an up-and-coming sightseeing destination in the city.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Cologne as you explore Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel). Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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 highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Koblenz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Deutsches Eck, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation. This worthwhile tramway is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basilica Of St. Castor, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Rheinanlagen Koblenz is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Schloss Koblenz and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most intriguing attractions.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Spökes, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dubai Shisha Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Koblenz on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Heidelberg Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Heidelberger Marktplatz is your next stop. This frequently visited public square is one of the best-rated sights in Koblenz.

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 Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. This history-steeped church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Old Bridge Heidelberg and Philosophers’ Way.

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 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sonder Bar (pinte), a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café Bar Goodfellas 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 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 Schwetzingen, Mannheim, and Heidelberg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Immerse yourself in Heidelberg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Schwetzingen Palace. This history-steeped castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Luisenpark, a must-visit park in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Mannheim Baroque Palace, a frequently visited palace. For a change of scene, check out Watertower Of Mannheim, known for its enchanting features. We also recommend visiting Scheffelterrasse. This observation deck is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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

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 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Destille offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Lenox Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Baden-Baden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Baden-Baden, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Heidelberg covers several incredible sights, including a heritage railway, a park, a museum, a casino and much more! Start your adventure at Merkur Funicular Railway. This underrated heritage railway is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the noteworthy wonders of Gönneranlage, a must-see park in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museum Frieder Burda. This often recommended museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Trinkhalle, where you can take in breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Kur Park and The Baden-baden Casino. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Monte Christo, a highly-rated dining destination in Baden-Baden. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Einhorn | Café • Restaurant • Weinbar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Baden-Baden this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Havana Shisha Lounge offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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 Baden-Baden, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Museum Ritterhaus. This up-and-coming museum is an instagrammable place to see in Baden-Baden. Continue your discovery at Triberg Waterfalls, an eye-catching waterfall with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Baden-Baden, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hornisgrinde Tower. This curiosity-inducing observation deck offers a romantic encounter with Baden-Baden. Next, make your way to Geroldsauer Wasserfall to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Rose Society Garden (new Rose Garden), a worthwhile botanical garden that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Baden-Baden.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fritz & Felix, a top-rated dining destination in Baden-Baden. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider RIVE GAUCHE BRASSERIE · Club Twenty One, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RIZZI The Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Baden-Baden this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Munich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Munich, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Baden-Baden. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a park, a food market, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Nymphenburg Palace. This is a captivating palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Hofgarten, a frequently visited park in Baden-Baden.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Viktualienmarkt. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Marienplatz, another of the city’s globally renowned attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Munich. Munich 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 Munich. 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 Little London / Bar & Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ginkgo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Munich tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Garçon. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Holy Spirit 1 Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Say good night to Munich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!