10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling south to Cologne and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Muenster, Cologne, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Hörste, Halle, and Borgholzhausen. 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 3 nights in Muenster, 2 nights in Cologne, 2 nights in Pleikartsförster Hof, and 2 nights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. 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 Muenster, 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. Cologne Cathedral and Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Cologne Zoological Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Bridge Heidelberg.
As you hit the open road and drive through Muenster, Cologne, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Hörste, Halle, and Borgholzhausen, 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
- Münster - Arrival day
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- Kiepenkerl-Denkmal
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Welcome to Muenster, 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 Muenster's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Muenster 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 Kiepenkerl-denkmal, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Muenster. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Muenster, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Cuba - Club und Bar Münster, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Schloßtheater Münster beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cafe Extrablatt Münster Königsstraße. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Muenster tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Atelier, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Spooky's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Münster
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Drive 8 km, 46 min
- Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
- Schloss Münster
- Schlossplatz
- LWL Museum of Natural History with Planetarium
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Muenster for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Muenster today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This romantic botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Schloss Münster and learn what makes this visually striking palace unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Schlossplatz. After exploring the public square, head to Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This intriguing museum is a highlight in Muenster.
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.
Experience shopping bliss at Muenster as you explore Ludgeristraße. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Ludgeristraße offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Ackermann, a top-rated dining destination in Muenster. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Muenster this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Eulen & Lerchen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The James is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.
Head back to your accommodation in Muenster and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Münster
- Cologne
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Media Park Köln mbH
- Cologne Cathedral
- Museum Ludwig
- Rheingarten (Köln)
- Wallraf–Richartz Museum
- Old Market
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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 - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Media Park Köln Mbh. Continue your discovery at Cologne Cathedral, a stunning church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Muenster, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Ludwig. This intriguing museum offers a historic encounter with Muenster. Next, make your way to Rhine Garden Sculpture to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Wallraf–richartz Museum, an often recommended museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Old Market, an interesting public square 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 Muenster.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 4
- Cologne
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 51 min
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Rheinpark
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Rheinboulevard
- Schildergasse
- Belgisches Viertel
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Day 4 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Schildergasse is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Cologne, 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 Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Cologne.
Begin your adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This is an intriguing sightseeing destination you should not miss. Another must-see is Rheinpark, a frequently visited park in Cologne.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Lindt Chocolate Museum, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Rheinboulevard, a visually striking place of interest in the city.
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 Cologne. 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 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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 5
- Cologne
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Drive 262 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Heidelberg Zoo
- Neckarwiese (Heidelberg)
- Body Worlds Museum - Anatomy of happiness
- Scheffelterrasse
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pleikartsförster Hof, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Heidelberg Zoo is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most captivating places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Neckarwiese (heidelberg), a beloved park, known for its eye-catching 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 Body Worlds Museum - Anatomy Of Happiness. This picture-perfect museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Scheffelterrasse. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Pleikartsförster Hof, 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 Pleikartsförster Hof. 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 Pleikartsförster Hof.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 6
Pleikartsförster Hof and Heidelberg
Drive 16 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Heidelberg Palace
- Pharmacy Museum
- Heidelberger Marktplatz
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Brückenaffe
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Philosophers' Way
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Pleikartsförster Hof, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate hamlet. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Heidelberg. You still have 1 night left in Pleikartsförster Hof.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, German Pharmacy Museum, an instagrammable museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Heidelberger Marktplatz, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. When you're finished at the church, Heidelberg Bridge Monkey awaits your visit. Last up is a historical landmark - the popular Old Bridge Heidelberg.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Pleikartsförster Hof.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pleikartsförster Hof. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 7
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 10 min
- Double Bridge
- Plönlein
- Medieval Crime Museum
- German Christmas Museum
- Town Hall
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Pleikartsförster Hof, including a monument, a public square, a museum, a city hall and much more! Start your adventure at Double Bridge. This underrated monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) located in Pleikartsförster Hof for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Medieval Crime Museum. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to German Christmas Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this museum. Next up is Town Hall, a highly recommended city hall.
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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 8
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Toppler Castle
- Burggarten
- Blade Gate
- Gallows Gate
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On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber. You’ll stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today's adventure in Rothenburg ob der Tauber promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Toppler Castle. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Castle Garden, another serene attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 9
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Münster
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Drive 498 km, 5 hours 53 min
- Schloss Tatenhausen
- Tatenhauser Wald
- Johannisegge-Schornstein und südexponierte Kammlage
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hörste, Halle, and Borgholzhausen, 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 Muenster. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Schloss Tatenhausen is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Tatenhauser Wald, an up-and-coming hiking area, located just a leisurely stroll away.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Muenster. 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 Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Isegrim Café | Bar, an iconic dining spot in Muenster. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Road Stop Münster, a popular restaurant in Muenster. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Namaste | Indisches Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Muenster. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 10
- Münster - Departure day
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- Rathausplatz Münster
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Day 10 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Muenster 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 Rathausplatz Münster, a picture-perfect public square before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Muenster’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Prinzipalmarkt. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Muenster.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Romantik Hotel Hof zur Linde, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cafe Extrablatt Münster? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Muenster. 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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