12-Day Germany road trip from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt, Würzburg, Munich, and Ulm

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Karlsruhe and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 2 nights 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 region.

Karlsruhe is a beautiful region with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Karlsruhe. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Karlsruhe. 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.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Bistro Margarete, a restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence and fine dining. This restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature regional meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Karlsruhe, sein. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Karlsruhe you shouldn’t miss is TAWA YAMA FINE. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern and international menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is Der KofferRaum - Cocktailbar. This claim is supported by 651 customers who have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like Vogelbräu Karlsruhe. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,187 customers.

The options in Karlsruhe don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent Marktlücke. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,823 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Germany!

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Karlsruhe. You have 1 night left in Karlsruhe. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Karlsruhe.

Don't forget to book a table at bratar Burger Grill Bar | Karlsruhe, a well-known eatery in Karlsruhe. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,844 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Syrtaki while exploring Karlsruhe. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,378 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bratar, a popular restaurant in Karlsruhe. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,625 discerning diners.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Badisch Brauhaus. This place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,350 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Gasthaus Gutenberg. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,136 customers.

Santo’s Cocktailbar is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the region. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 547 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Heidelberg and Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt. Frankfurt will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karlsruhe and set your GPS to Heidelberg. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 55 min. Upon reaching Heidelberg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’ve had your share of Heidelberg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Frankfurt. Your travel time is around 1 hour 9 min.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Gustav, one of the finest Bib Gourmand restaurants in Frankfurt, boasting 2 Michelin stars. Featuring delightful food options and creative offerings, Gustav has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than Lafleur. This food haven in Frankfurt has been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Featuring modern french and creative cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at Erno's Bistro. This celebrated dining spot in Frankfurt is renowned for its sumptuous meals and classic french and modern menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

O'reilly's Irish pubs is one of the best bars you can visit in Frankfurt tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,367 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Oosten. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,068 customers.

Alternatively, try Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main. Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the region. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,956 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Frankfurt. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Frankfurt, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Frankfurt below.

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

Book a table at Restaurant Klosterhof, a famous dining establishment in Frankfurt. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,908 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Frankfurt is Gaststätte Atschel, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.4 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 2,694 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Frankfurt’s Ebbelwoi Unser for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,355 satisfied diners.

After dinner, visit Maincafé for a drink or two. This bar serves plenty of food and drink options and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,409 customers.

You can also enjoy your night at SenSaSion Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 400 customers, it's safe to say that SenSaSion Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt promises an unforgettable bar experience.

Alternatively, locals recommend Gleis 25. This bar, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 503 customers, is a great place to meet new friends.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Frankfurt has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Frankfurt by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Don't miss out on experiencing Mainkai Café, a renowned dining spot in Frankfurt. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,040 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus while immersing yourself in Frankfurt. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,641 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of African Queen Restaurant, a beloved dining establishment within Frankfurt. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,731 satisfied customers.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt. This place has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 4,183 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Chicago Meatpackers. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,198 customers.

Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Frankfurt. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,883 customers.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Frankfurt and Würzburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Würzburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Goethe House, a remarkable literary museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,005 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Nizza. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,190 travelers.

German Film Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,396 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Städel Museum. This well-loved art museum boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 9,294 reviews.

Würzburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Frankfurt behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min. Würzburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Würzburg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the region.

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

KUNO 1408 is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative and modern meals.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Würzburg is Backöfele. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,819 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Locanda Würzburg - Pizza & Pasta, in Würzburg. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,571 satisfied customers.

Habaneros is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,803 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at HANS IM GLÜCK - WÜRZBURG Marienkapelle. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,277 customers.

Bürgerspital-Weinstuben is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Würzburg. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,837 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

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 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Würzburg, Nuremberg, and Munich, 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 Munich. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Drop by the renowned Würzburg Residence. This popular schloss has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,366 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 350,000 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Old Main Bridge. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,308 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Marienberg Fortress. This fortress has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,851 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Würzburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nuremberg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 38 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Nuremberg Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,670 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Munich. This car ride takes around 2 hours.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Munich. Munich offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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 region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Transform your dining experience at Atelier, one of the top Bib Gourmand restaurants in Munich, holding 2 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on creative french cuisine, Atelier has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Indulge in culinary masterpieces at EssZimmer in Munich, renowned as a Bib-Gourmand recipient. With its 2 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The delectable modern french and creative cuisine at EssZimmer is acclaimed far and wide.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining in Munich. Its 2-Michelin star menu is crafted to delight your senses and transport you on a gastronomic journey. This distinguished restaurant, awarded with a Bib-Gourmand honor, offers creative and modern dishes that have gained widespread acclaim from satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Zephyr Bar, which is considered one of the best bars in the region. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,016 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Schneider Bräuhaus München. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,282 customers.

Alternatively, check out Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,885 customers.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Munich for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Munich on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Augustiner Klosterwirt GmbH, a distinguished dining establishment in Munich. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 7,224 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Munich is Ratskeller München. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 6,121 happy diners.

Kilians Irish Pub stands out as a local favorite in Munich. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 5,188 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, Nuernberger Bratwurst Gloeckl am Dom is one of the best bars in Munich for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,035 customers.

Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger is another of the most popular bars in the region. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,475 customers.

Alternatively, check out Rosi coffee & bar. This popular place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, as rated by 2,119 customers.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Munich. You have 1 night left in Munich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

You can learn more about Munich today by going on a tour. Munich offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Munich.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Spatenhaus at the opera, an acclaimed dining establishment in Munich. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,695 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Münchner Stubn while experiencing the best of Munich. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,255 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Zum Dürnbräu, an elegant culinary destination in Munich. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,242 previous guests.

Locals recommend going for a drink at Restaurant Savanna Munich. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,422 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is Pusser's. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,267 customers.

Ned Kelly's Australian Bar also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,049 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 10 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, Hohenschwangau, and Ulm. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ulm, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Marienplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,139 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Viktualienmarkt. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 58,191 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Stachus. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,791 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Munich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Hohenschwangau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Hohenschwangau Castle. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,469 reviews.

Next up is Neuschwanstein Castle. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 89,719 visitors.

Set your GPS to Ulm and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ulm beckons with new experiences!

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

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

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Treibgut, a luxury local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious rating and impressive menu, Treibgut consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional contemporary and international cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Seestern, one of the best 1-star Michelin establishments in Ulm. Take your pick from the modern french menu, which has consistently earned Seestern high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Ulm and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, bi:braud. Its delectable contemporary offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals.

Many locals go to Choclet to have a good time. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,238 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option is Wirtshaus zur Brezel. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,727 customers.

Café Brettle is another great option in Ulm. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 770 customers.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Stuttgart and Karlsruhe. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ulm, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stuttgart may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Stuttgart, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stuttgart, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Karlsruhe. This drive usually takes around 56 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Karlsruhe, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the region.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Karlsruhe.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Café Palaver while you’re in Karlsruhe. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,203 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Karlsruhe is Seng Sushi & Chinarestaurant. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,012 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Karlsruhe, enjoy Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 895 satisfied guests.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the region, go to Phono Craftbeer Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 405 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Electric Eel. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 335 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is Old Bank. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,079 customers.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Karlsruhe before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Karlsruhe’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the region’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Karlsruhe.

You’ll then say farewell to Karlsruhe. 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!