Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Frankfurt

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Belgisches Viertel is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Cologne. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Cologne Zoological Garden. This picture-perfect zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Cathedral and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-listed church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french 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 Cologne.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Glees and end it in the city of Frankfurt. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a monastery, a castle, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Maria Laach Abbey. This worthwhile monastery is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eltz Castle, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

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 Deutsches Eck, a popular monument in the hamlet. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Frankfurt in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Frankfurt, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Frankfurt by securing a table at Gustav. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Lafleur, famous for its scrumptious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Erno's Bistro, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic french and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gute Stute offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gleis 25 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Glees can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Frankfurt!

Zeil is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Frankfurt, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Sachsenhausen, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Frankfurt.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Frankfurt, including a monument, a public square, and a zoo. Start your day at Iron Footbridge. This history-steeped monument is a notable place to see in Frankfurt. Then, wander over to Römerberg. If romantic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Zoo Frankfurt. This breathtaking zoo is a favorite among visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Frankfurt. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Frankfurt that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Frankfurt to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Frankfurt.

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

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Frankfurt, and meet locals along the way!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Senckenberg Museum. This intriguing museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Palmengarten, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Alte Oper, one of the most popular places to see in Frankfurt. This opera house is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Nizza. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Städel Museum, a top-rated art museum that adds another dimension to your day.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Frankfurt, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Frankfurt and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rote Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Belfordfrankfurt also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Frankfurt on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable museum, House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. Afterward, continue to Rheinaue, 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 city. Next, make your way to Schloss Drachenburg. This interesting castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Phantasialand, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cologne. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Cologne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Limani, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.