One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne and Heidelberg and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Frankfurt. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Römerberg is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most notable places to visit in Frankfurt. Next, head to Iron Footbridge, a notable monument, known for its history-steeped 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 Zoo Frankfurt. This breathtaking zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Alte Oper and Palmengarten. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 2 nights left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Duisburg Zoo, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This interesting park is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Villa Hügel is also worth visiting.

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

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brühl and Cologne.

A visit to Schildergasse in Brühl is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views. Start at the famous Phantasialand, a photogenic amusement park in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Old Market. This instagrammable public square offers a unique experience. Lindt Chocolate Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz and Speyer. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Deutsches Eck is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect monument before continuing your journey. Technik Museum Speyer is your next stop. This notable aviation museum is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Speyer Cathedral. This historic church is a sight to behold.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Heidelberg at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, 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 Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Heidelberg tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Heidelberg. You’ll stay in Heidelberg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make sure to visit Hauptstraße, a popular street in Heidelberg. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Heidelberg allows for both. Start by heading to Neckarwiese (heidelberg). This increasingly popular park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Old Bridge Heidelberg, a history-steeped historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz, an often recommended public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the extraordinary Heidelberg Castle.

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 Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ristorante Santa Lucia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try VINCIdue? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Essighaus as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Destille, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Orange Cafe Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Lenox Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Stuttgart, 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Porsche Museum, an interesting museum in the city. Then, head to Killesberg Tower and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring park.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Schloßplatz. This is one of the city’s most captivating romantic spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the locally renowned Mercedes-benz Museum.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Lafleur, 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 Erno's Bistro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic french and modern menu. With a 1-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 Frankfurt.

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.

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