One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling east to Cologne, Frankfurt, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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

Start your day at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, wander over to Lindt Chocolate Museum. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Museum Ludwig. This history-steeped museum is a favorite among visitors.

Düsseldorf offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cologne Cathedral is a top-rated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the respected Old Market. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting public square.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a monument, a public square, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Museumsufer. This beloved museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Iron Footbridge, a must-see monument in the city.

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 Römerberg. This notable public square offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Frankfurt Cathedral, where you can take in stunning features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Im Herzen Afrikas, 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 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gute Stute, known for its inviting atmosphere. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Frankfurt, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Frankfurt for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Heidelberg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Hauptstraße is a fantastic place you can explore today in Heidelberg. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Heidelberg-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Frankfurt is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a hiking area, a historical landmark, a church, a public square, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Philosophers’ Way and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Old Bridge Heidelberg, a romantic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Heidelberger Marktplatz. When you're finished at the public square, Heidelberg Castle awaits your visit. This castle is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Frankfurt. 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 dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Apfelwein Dax, 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 Ariston Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Jambo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Cosy Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Frankfurt, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Rudesheim am Rhein, Biebernheim, and St. Goar-Fellen. You still have 1 night left in Frankfurt.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Die Drosselgasse. This enchanting street is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Rheinfels Castle, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Rhine Gorge, one of the town’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rote Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Belfordfrankfurt 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.

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Frankfurt on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended sightseeing destination, Blade Gate. Afterward, continue to Castle Garden, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Frankfurt’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 frequently visited museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Medieval Crime Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), a beloved public square in the town. Finally, end your day with a visit to Town Hall, a respected city hall that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Würzburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, including a palace, a church, a monument, a historical landmark, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Würzburg Residence. This intriguing palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Wurzburg Cathedral, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rothenburg ob der Tauber on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Four Tubes Fountain, a worthwhile monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Old Main Bridge and Marienberg Fortress.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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.

Dine in style at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Coffee Fellows. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Studio 1, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sakura Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Engel Rockbar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!