9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leipzig traveling south to Dresden, Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Munich
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Leipzig, 2 nights in Dresden, 1 night in Nuremberg, 1 night in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and 1 night in Munich. 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 Leipzig, 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. Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Zwinger, learn more about the unique Nuremberg Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bmw Museum.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leipzig, Dresden, Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich, Waltenhofen, Alterschrofen, and Hohenschwangau, 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!
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Day 1
- Leipzig - Arrival day
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- Botanical Garden Leipzig
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Welcome to Leipzig, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Leipzig's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Leipzig 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 Botanical Garden Leipzig, or just 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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at IMPERII, an iconic dining spot in Leipzig. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Seminaris Hotel Leipzig, a popular restaurant in Leipzig. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Lerchennest Leipzig, a hidden gem nestled in Leipzig. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mephisto, known for its lively atmosphere. Brick's Der Cocktail is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Skala offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Leipzig
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Drive 16 km, 42 min
- Marktplatz Leipzig
- Bach-Museum Leipzig
- St. Thomas Church
- Wildpark Leipzig
- Leipzig Panometer
- Monument to the Battle of the Nations
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Leipzig for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Marktplatz Leipzig. This popular public square is a heritage-rich place to see in Leipzig. Continue your discovery at Bach-museum Leipzig, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Leipzig, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to St. Thomas Church. This often recommended church offers a culturally significant encounter with Leipzig. Next, make your way to Wildpark Leipzig to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Leipzig Panometer, a locally appreciated art installation that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Monument To The Battle Of The Nations, a popular monument in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Leipzig.
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 Leipzig. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at L'Osteria Leipzig, a highly-rated dining destination in Leipzig. If you're eager to try something different, consider R10 Bar & Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elliniki Griechisches Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leipzig this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Jamboree is an excellent place to start.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 3
- Leipzig
- Dresden
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours
- Dresden Zoo
- Golden Rider
- Semperoper
- Old Masters Picture Gallery
- Zwinger
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Dresden. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dresden. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and scenic views await you in Leipzig on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating zoo, Dresden Zoo. Afterward, continue to Golden Rider, a monument every traveler should visit.
As you explore Leipzig’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Semperoper. This notable opera house is an essential stop. Following that, head to Old Masters Picture Gallery, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Zwinger, an interesting palace in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dresden. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dresden. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Luisenhof, Dresden boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bakery Wippler GmbH. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dresden.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hebeda's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Blondes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Dresden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Dresden
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Pillnitz Castle
- Loschwitz Bridge
- The Grand Garden of Dresden
- Dresden Transport Museum
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dresden. You’ll stay in Dresden for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Dresden on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Pillnitz Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped castle before continuing your journey. Loschwitz Bridge is your next stop. This often recommended historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Dresden.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit The Grand Garden Of Dresden. This romantic park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Dresden Transport Museum and Church Of Our Lady. If time allows, end your day with Brühl's Terrace, a history-steeped public square that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
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 you explore more of Dresden, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ristorante "Mamma Mia", an iconic dining spot in Dresden. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant brennNessel Dresden, a popular restaurant in Dresden. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Old Beams Pub & Dining, a hidden gem nestled in Dresden. 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 Gin House Dresden after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Madness Bar Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Nightfly Shisha And Cocktail also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Dresden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Dresden
- Nuremberg
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Drive 326 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Albrecht Dürer's House
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Albrecht-Dürer-Denkmal
- Schöner Brunnen
- Museum Bridge
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This captivating museum is an instagrammable place to see in Dresden. Continue your discovery at Albrecht Dürer's House, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Dresden, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Nuremberg Castle. This interesting castle offers an awe-inspiring encounter with Dresden. Next, make your way to Albrecht-dürer-denkmal to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Schöner Brunnen, a frequently visited monument that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Museum Bridge, a beloved historical landmark in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dresden.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Burgwächter, an iconic dining spot in Nuremberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Alte Küch'n & Im Keller, a popular restaurant in Nuremberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg, a hidden gem nestled in Nuremberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Irish Castle Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Mata Hari Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Undecided Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 6
- Nuremberg
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 81 km, 1 hour 41 min
- Blade Gate
- Burggarten
- German Christmas Museum
- Plönlein
- Medieval Crime Museum
- Town Hall
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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 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.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming town of Nuremberg. Your adventure starts at Blade Gate, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Castle Garden.
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 German Christmas Museum. This respected museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) is also worth visiting, along with Medieval Crime Museum. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Town Hall. This frequently visited city hall provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 7
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Munich
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Nymphenburg Palace
- BMW Museum
- Victuals Market
- Marienplatz
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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 Munich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Munich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start by visiting Nymphenburg Palace, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bmw Museum, another must-visit landmark and captivating museum renowned for its standout features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Viktualienmarkt. This visually striking food market is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Rothenburg ob der Tauber experience. We also recommend visiting Marienplatz, a wondrous public square.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. 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 Munich. 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 delightful dinner at Little London / Bar & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ginkgo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Munich.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 8
- Munich
- Leipzig
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Drive 676 km, 7 hours 40 min
- St. Coloman
- Schloss Bullachberg
- Hohenschwangau Castle
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Waltenhofen, Alterschrofen, and Hohenschwangau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Leipzig, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Munich today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is St. Coloman. This symbolic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Schloss Bullachberg and learn what makes this visually striking castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Hohenschwangau Castle.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Leipzig, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Leipzig, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Zur Pleißenburg, a top-rated dining destination in Leipzig. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Luise, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Indian Crown. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leipzig this evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Leipzig - Departure day
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- Palmengarten
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Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Leipzig before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Leipzig's best shopping area, Petersstraße. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leipzig.
You’ll then say farewell to Leipzig. 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!
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