9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne, Heidelberg, Nuremberg, and Munich

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

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Dortmund. Your adventure starts at Rheinboulevard, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dortmund's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cologne Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Museum Ludwig is also worth visiting, along with Old Market. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Cologne and Bonn. You still have 1 night left in Cologne.

Start your day with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This well-known zoo is a must-visit in the city.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Beethoven-haus Bonn, an underrated museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Poppelsdorf Palace.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Heidelberg Castle. This romantic castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Kornmarkt, a must-visit public square 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 Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a locally appreciated church. For a change of scene, check out Old Bridge Heidelberg, known for its symbolic features. We also recommend visiting Philosophers’ Way. This hiking area 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 Heidelberg. 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nuremberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nuremberg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Heidelberg today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Nuremberg Castle. This breathtaking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg and learn what makes this grand church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Toy Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Fleisch Bridge. This worthwhile monument is a highlight in Heidelberg. As your day continues, stop by Nürnberg Altstadt, known for its visually striking features.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Burgwächter, a highly-rated dining destination in Nuremberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Alte Küch'n & Im Keller, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nuremberg this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Irish Castle Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mata Hari Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Undecided Bar 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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Nuremberg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures await you in Nuremberg on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved point of interest, Blade Gate. Afterward, continue to Town Hall, a city hall every traveler should visit.

As you explore Nuremberg’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 beloved 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), an up-and-coming public square in the town.

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

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

Dine in style at Katzentempel Nürnberg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nuremberg.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ludwigs Bar & Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bierwerk offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Nuremberg, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at English Garden, a top-rated park in the city. Then, head to Nymphenburg Palace and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Nuremberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Hofgarten. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the iconic Marienplatz.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Munich, 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 Munich's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Little London / Bar & Grill, an iconic dining spot in Munich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ginkgo, a popular restaurant in Munich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger, a hidden gem nestled in Munich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Say good night to Munich and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Würzburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Munich. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Würzburg Residence is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Munich. Next, head to Wurzburg Cathedral, a locally appreciated church, known for its breathtaking 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 Old Main Bridge. This romantic historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Lord. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

Continue your lively evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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