12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Rudesheim am Rhein, Heidelberg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Munich

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 3 nights left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Cologne Zoological Garden. This locally renowned zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Museum Ludwig. This beloved museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Rheinboulevard, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Düsseldorf.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a street, an art gallery, a public square, a boardwalk and much more! Start your adventure at Schloss Benrath. This notable palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Königsallee, a must-see street 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 curiosity-inducing art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Burgplatz, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rheinpromenade. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Suderman, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Aachen and Monschau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited monument, Elisenbrunnen. Afterward, continue to Kreislauf Des Geldes, an art installation every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Aachen Cathedral. This popular church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Monschau, an up-and-coming historical landmark in the city.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Bornich, Kaub, and Rudesheim am Rhein, 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 Rudesheim am Rhein. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an observation deck, a castle, a museum, a street and much more! Begin your adventure at Aussicht Spitznack. This is a worthwhile observation deck you should not miss. Another must-see is Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, an increasingly popular castle in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Siegfried's Mechanical Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Die Drosselgasse, another of the village’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rudesheim am Rhein, 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 Rudesheim am Rhein. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.

On day 6 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 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Heidelberg Castle. This widely recognized castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Old Bridge Heidelberg, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Philosophers’ Way, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Rudesheim am Rhein. This hiking area is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Neckarwiese (heidelberg). Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this park offers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

Keep the evening going at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sonder Bar (pinte), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Bar Goodfellas, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Triberg im Schwarzwald and Freiburg im Breisgau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Freiburg im Breisgau, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Triberg-land, a beloved waterfall in the town. Then, head to Schwarzwaldmuseum and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Triberg Waterfalls. This is one of the town’s most popular idyllic spots of interest. After exploring the waterfall, visit the locally appreciated Martin's Gate.

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

As you explore more of Freiburg im Breisgau, 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 Hotel Oberkirch, an iconic dining spot in Freiburg im Breisgau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Süden, a popular restaurant in Freiburg im Breisgau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Gallo Freiburg, a hidden gem nestled in Freiburg im Breisgau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Am Funkeneck, known for its inviting atmosphere. Beat Bar Butzemann is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Freiburg im Breisgau for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Freiburg im Breisgau on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular church, Freiburger Münsterbauverein. Afterward, continue to Historical Merchants' Hall, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.

As you explore Freiburg im Breisgau’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Augustiner Museum. This frequently visited museum is an essential stop.

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 Freiburg im Breisgau, 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.

Dine in style at Kucci, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Goldener Anker boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Martinsbräu. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Freiburg im Breisgau.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hohenschwangau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Freiburg im Breisgau, including a castle, a palace, and a street. Start your adventure at Neuschwanstein Castle. This impressive castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Linderhof Palace located in Freiburg im Breisgau for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Historische Ludwigstraße. Its enchanting features will captivate you.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Fischer's Mohrenplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Wolpertinger, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bungalow 7 - Daniel Harry Mühle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Servus Musicbar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐂𝐚𝐟é / 𝐁𝐚𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐡, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!