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

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

Start by visiting Bundesbank Bunker, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Reichsburg Cochem, another must-visit landmark and captivating castle renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. This heritage-rich museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience.

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

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

Dine in style at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kelsey's Eck after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cochem, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Continue your journey to Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik, one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Brückentor (traben-trarbach).

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Heidelberg. You have 1 night left in Heidelberg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heidelberg today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Old Bridge Heidelberg. This symbolic historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg and learn what makes this romantic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Kornmarkt. After exploring the public square, head to Heidelberg Castle. This spectacular castle is a highlight in Heidelberg.

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 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Destille, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Orange Cafe Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Lenox Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Heidelberg on today’s itinerary. First up is the up-and-coming public square, Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). Afterward, continue to Medieval Crime Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Heidelberg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to German Christmas Museum. This locally appreciated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Town Hall, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the worthwhile Castle Garden, an instagrammable park in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Next, go to Nördlinger Stadtmauer.

After visiting Castle Garden and Nördlinger Stadtmauer, have a stroll along Rothenburg ob der Tauber's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Saint George Church. This photogenic church offers a unique experience. Kirchturm Daniel is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Dinkelsbühl Altstadt.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Munich. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Munich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bmw Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Hofgarten, a must-visit park 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 Frauenkirche, a notable church. For a change of scene, check out Viktualienmarkt, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Marienplatz. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. 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 Munich's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining spot in Munich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ginkgo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Munich.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Garçon, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Zephyr Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bamberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bamberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Munich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Neue Residenz Bamberg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking palace before continuing your journey. Bamberg Cathedral is your next stop. This intriguing church is one of the best-rated sights in Munich.

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 Bamberg Old Town. This visually striking historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Sammlung Ludwig Bamberg Im Alten Rathaus I Museen Der Stadt Bamberg and Rathaus.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bamberg. Bamberg 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 Bamberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

On day 11 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 Würzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bamberg, including a palace, a church, a monument, a historical landmark, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Würzburg Residence. This increasingly popular palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Wurzburg Cathedral located in Bamberg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Four Tubes Fountain. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Old Main Bridge. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this historical landmark. Next up is Marienberg Fortress, a highly recommended castle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 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.

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.

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