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

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore Germany and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Frankfurt, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, Keldung, and Koblenz. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Germany at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Frankfurt, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, Keldung, and Koblenz. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Frankfurt and 2 nights in Cologne. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Germany.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Germany. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Frankfurt, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Germany and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Germany with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Germany.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Germany. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Phantasialand. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cologne Cathedral.

Traveling leisurely through Germany means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Lindt Chocolate Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Deutsches Eck. Get close to the spectacular Eltz Castle and the wonderful Römerberg. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Germany's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Germany.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Germany. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Germany's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Germany.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Germany. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Germany. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Germany and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany today!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Frankfurt

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Zeil
Zoo FrankfurtFrankfurt CathedralRömerbergIron Footbridge
Palmengarten FrankfurtAlte OperNizzaGerman Film MuseumStädel Museum
SiebengebirgeSchloss DrachenburgBrühl CastlePhantasialand
Cologne Chocolate MuseumOld MarketCologne CathedralSchildergasseBelgisches Viertel
Maria Laach AbbeyEltz CastleEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckEhrenbreitstein Fortress
Sachsenhausen

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Frankfurt - Arrival day
  • More
  • Zeil
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Frankfurt and begin your adventure in Germany.

Frankfurt is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Zeil, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Frankfurt. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Im Herzen Afrikas offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gute Stute stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gleis 25 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany. Enjoy your first taste of Frankfurt as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 4 km, 39 min

  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Frankfurt Cathedral
  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • More

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

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the locally renowned Zoo Frankfurt, a visually striking zoo in Frankfurt. Next, go to Frankfurt Cathedral.

After visiting Zoo Frankfurt and Frankfurt Cathedral, have a stroll along Frankfurt's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Römerberg. This awe-inspiring public square offers a unique experience. Iron Footbridge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Lafleur, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Erno's Bistro, a local gem known for its delightful classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Frankfurt and unwind at some of the best 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.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 9 km, 53 min

  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Alte Oper
  • Nizza
  • German Film Museum
  • Städel Museum
  • More

Day 3 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!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Frankfurt. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Palmengarten is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most well-known places to visit in Frankfurt. Next, head to Alte Oper, a notable opera house, 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 Nizza. This mesmerizing park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find German Film Museum and Städel Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Visit Skyline Plaza in Frankfurt for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Skyline Plaza has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rote Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Belfordfrankfurt, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Frankfurt
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 224 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Siebengebirge
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Brühl Castle
  • Phantasialand
  • More

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Heisterbacherrott. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Frankfurt allows for both. Start by heading to Siebengebirge. This worthwhile mountain range provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Schloss Drachenburg, a romantic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Brühl Castle, an increasingly popular castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the famous Phantasialand.

In the city of Cologne, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

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 Cologne.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Grid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toddy Tapper. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated place in the area.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 3 km, 41 min

  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Schildergasse
  • Belgisches Viertel
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, 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 Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. 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 Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a public square, and a church. Begin your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This is a well-known museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Market, a captivating public square in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cologne Cathedral.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cologne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Cologne
  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 279 km, 4 hours 23 min

  • Maria Laach Abbey
  • Eltz Castle
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • More

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Glees and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Keldung and the city of Koblenz. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night.

Start by visiting Maria Laach Abbey, a prime spot to begin your journey. This inviting monastery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Eltz Castle, another must-visit landmark and popular castle renowned for its enchanting 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 Deutsches Eck. This breathtaking monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, an interesting castle.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Frankfurt. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, 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 Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, 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 Namaste India, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Frankfurt.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Frankfurt - Departure day
  • More
  • Sachsenhausen
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Frankfurt.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Frankfurt’s shopping center, the lively Zeil. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Sachsenhausen, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Frankfurt. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Frankfurt or just grab something light to keep you going.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt is another top choice with a popular menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Frankfurt and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Germany is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Germany

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.