13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne, Cochem, Trier, Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, and Stuttgart

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a park, an art gallery, a public square, a boardwalk and much more! Start your adventure at Schloss Benrath. This popular palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Hofgarten, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This beloved art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Burgplatz, where you can take in enchanting features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rheinpromenade and Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Studio 1 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sakura Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 3 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.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Cologne Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, Old Market awaits your visit. This public square is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Poppelsdorf Palace is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Botanical Garden, Bonn, a locally appreciated botanical garden, known for its romantic 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 Beethoven-denkmal. This noteworthy monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Beethoven-haus Bonn and Rheinaue. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 2 vibrant destinations - Cochem and Keldung. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cochem. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum and a castle. Begin your adventure at Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. This is a locally appreciated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Reichsburg Cochem, an interesting castle in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Eltz Castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cochem. Cochem offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, an iconic dining spot in Cochem. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Keep the evening going at Kelsey's Eck, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Trier. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Cochem promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Karl-marx-house Museum. This eye-catching museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Petrusbrunnen, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Liebfrauenkirche, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its majestic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Porta Nigra. This culturally significant monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Brasserie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Monte Petris. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Trier tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Chrome!, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Studio 11 Gbr. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Simplicissimus, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 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 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Philosophers’ Way. This up-and-coming hiking area is an idyllic place to see in Trier. Continue your discovery at Old Bridge Heidelberg, an enchanting historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Trier, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This locally appreciated public square offers a romantic encounter with Trier. Next, make your way to Kornmarkt to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Heidelberg Castle, a widely recognized castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Trier.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sonder Bar (pinte) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Schwetzingen has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Heidelberg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Schwetzingen is Hauptstraße. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Schwetzingen Palace, an increasingly popular castle in the town. Then, head to Watertower Of Mannheim and soak in the ambiance of this majestic monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Mannheim Baroque Palace. This is one of the town’s most worthwhile romantic spots of interest. After exploring the palace, visit the popular Luisenpark.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, VINCIdue offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Essighaus is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Destille is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Orange Cafe Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Lenox Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Freiburg im Breisgau, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Freiburg im Breisgau and Gundelfingen. You still have 1 night left in Freiburg im Breisgau.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Freiburg im Breisgau, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Bertoldsbrunnen, a worthwhile public square in the city. Then, head to Augustiner Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Freiburg im Breisgau, and when you are ready for more, go to Historical Merchants' Hall. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the locally renowned Freiburger Münsterbauverein. Not far away, you'll also find Ruin Zähringer Burg. This castle is an enchanting highlight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Kucci, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Goldener Anker beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Martinsbräu. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Freiburg im Breisgau tonight.

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

On day 11 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 Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the worthwhile Killesberg Tower, a detailed park in Freiburg im Breisgau. Next, go to Staatsgalerie Stuttgart.

After visiting Killesberg Tower and Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, have a stroll along Freiburg im Breisgau's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Mercedes-benz Museum. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience. Schloßplatz is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Jubiläumssäule, one of the most historic places to visit in Freiburg im Breisgau.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Tavern Waldhorn, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Le Théâtre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Garbe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Petit Coq, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Jigger & Spoon is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Stuttgart and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Rothenburg ob der Tauber. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Stuttgart, including a public square and a museum. Start your day at Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This standout public square is a worthwhile place to see in Stuttgart. Then, wander over to Medieval Crime Museum. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find German Christmas Museum. This history-steeped museum is a favorite among visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konditorei Heinemann. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

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