5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and surrounding area
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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 Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Hohenschwangau, Alterschrofen, and Horn. 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 Stuttgart, 1 night in Pleikartsförster Hof, and 1 night 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 Stuttgart, 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. Neuschwanstein Castle and Heidelberg Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Mercedes-benz Museum, learn more about the unique Schloßplatz, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hohenschwangau Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Hohenschwangau, Alterschrofen, and Horn, 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
- Stuttgart - Arrival day
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- Schlossplatz
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Stuttgart and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Stuttgart for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Stuttgart 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 Schloßplatz, 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 Stuttgart. 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 Stuttgart, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Tavern Waldhorn, a highly-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Le Théâtre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wirtshaus Garbe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Petit Coq. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Jigger & Spoon, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Stuttgart
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Drive 143 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Staatsgalerie Stuttgart
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Wilhelma
- Heidelberg Palace
- Philosophers' Way
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Stuttgart and Heidelberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pleikartsförster Hof. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Stuttgart. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Staatsgalerie Stuttgart is the perfect place to start. This art gallery is one of the most underrated places to visit in Stuttgart. Next, head to Mercedes-benz Museum, an interesting museum, known for its picture-perfect 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 Wilhelma. This picture-perfect zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Heidelberg Castle and Philosophers’ Way. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pleikartsförster Hof. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the hamlet.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pleikartsförster Hof's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Plönlein
- Medieval Crime Museum
- German Christmas Museum
- Burggarten
- Gallows Gate
- Blade Gate
- Town Hall
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rothenburg ob der Tauber. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This frequently visited public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Medieval Crime Museum located in Pleikartsförster Hof for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of German Christmas Museum. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Castle Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this park. Next up is Gallows Gate, a highly recommended sightseeing destination. For a change of pace, head to Blade Gate. As one of the most beloved attractions in Pleikartsförster Hof, this sightseeing destination is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Say good night to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Stuttgart
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Drive 480 km, 5 hours 42 min
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- Marienbrücke
- Schloss Bullachberg
- Königliche Kristall-Therme am Kurpark Schwangau
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On day 4 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 Hohenschwangau, Alterschrofen, and Horn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stuttgart, where you will stay for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Hohenschwangau Castle. This is a captivating castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Neuschwanstein Castle, a famous castle in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Marienbrücke. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Schloss Bullachberg, another of the village’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Königliche Kristall-therme Am Kurpark Schwangau, a visually striking place of interest in the village.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Stuttgart. Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, a top-rated dining destination in Stuttgart. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riedsee. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stuttgart this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Si-centrum Stuttgart, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mata Hari offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mocha Espresso & Wine provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 5
- Stuttgart - Departure day
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- Hans-im-Glück-Brunnen
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Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Stuttgart 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, begin at Hans-im-glück-brunnen. This frequently visited fountain is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Stuttgart's best shopping area, Königstraße. 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.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Stuttgart.
If you're eager to try something different, consider AMADEUS Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Stuttgart. 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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