5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Nuremberg
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, and Stuttgart. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Karlsruhe, 1 night in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and 1 night in Nuremberg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Karlsruhe, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Heidelberg Castle and Mercedes-benz Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Schloßplatz, learn more about the unique Nuremberg Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Wilhelma.
As you hit the open road and drive through Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, and Stuttgart, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Karlsruhe
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Karlsruhe - Arrival day
- More
- Kaiserstraße
- More
Welcome to Karlsruhe, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Karlsruhe's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Karlsruhe 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 Kaiserstraße, 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Karlsruhe. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Karlsruhe, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Hotel Rio Karlsruhe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zum Kleinen Ketterer beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Karlsruhe tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Phono Craftbeer Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Karlsruhe
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- More
Drive 237 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Philosophers' Way
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Heidelberg Palace
- Plönlein
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heidelberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Karlsruhe. Begin your sightseeing with Philosophers’ Way. This intriguing hiking area is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Old Bridge Heidelberg, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Karlsruhe, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This worthwhile public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Heidelberg Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's best restaurants.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 3
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Nuremberg
- More
Drive 108 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Burggarten
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Schöner Brunnen
- Fleischbrücke (Nürnberg)
- Nürnberg Altstadt
- More
On day 3 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Nuremberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nuremberg, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Castle Garden. This serene park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the symbolic features of Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a must-visit museum in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Nuremberg Castle, a notable castle. For a change of scene, check out Schöner Brunnen, known for its picture-perfect features. We also recommend visiting Fleisch Bridge. This monument is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Nürnberg Altstadt, yet another increasingly popular attraction in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nuremberg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nuremberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Burgwächter, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Alte Küch'n & Im Keller offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nuremberg.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Irish Castle Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Mata Hari Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Undecided Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Nuremberg
- Karlsruhe
- More
Drive 293 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Wilhelma
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Schlossplatz
- Karlsplatz
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Stuttgart. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Nuremberg. Your adventure starts at Wilhelma, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Mercedes-benz Museum. This captivating museum is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Nuremberg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Schloßplatz. This romantic public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Karlsplatz is also worth visiting.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Karlsruhe, 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 Karlsruhe. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at kap, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Enchilada Karlsruhe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Badisch Brauhaus. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Karlsruhe.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Carlos Cocktailbar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Ubu offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Head back to your accommodation in Karlsruhe and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Karlsruhe - Departure day
- More
- Marktplatz
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Marktplatz, a stunning public square before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe.
Dine in style at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Osteria Karlsruhe boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
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.
