5-Day Germany Road Trip from Düsseldorf traveling south to Heidelberg and Karlsruhe

Jan-Wellem-Reiterstandbild monument in Dusseldorf
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
5 days & 4 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
4 nights included
Car rental
5 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 5-day road trip through Germany.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Germany. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 2 nights in Dusseldorf, 1 night in Heidelberg, and 1 night in Karlsruhe, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Germany. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Dusseldorf, Heidelberg, and Karlsruhe. We'll help you experience the best 5 days in Germany you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Düsseldorf, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Germany, including the stunning Rheinturm and Old Bridge Heidelberg.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Germany. From the magnificent Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe to the breathtaking Europa-Park and Nürburgring, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. Make sure to marvel at the remarkable Cologne Cathedral and learn more about the unique Cologne Chocolate Museum to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. As you hit the open road and drive through Dusseldorf, Heidelberg, and Karlsruhe, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Germany. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Germany.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Germany.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Germany has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Germany. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 4 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 4 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Germany extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Germany today!

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Included

Hotel, 4 nights
Rental car, 5 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of aerial view of the city ,Rheinturm and Media Harbour district in Dusseldorf city in Germany.Dusseldorf / 2 nights
Cologne Aerial view with trains move on a bridge over the Rhine River on which cargo barges and passenger ships ply. Majestic Cologne Cathedral in the background.Cologne
Heidelberg - city in GermanyHeidelberg / 1 night
Karlsruhe - city in GermanyKarlsruhe / 1 night

Map

Attractions

Photo of aerial view of Europa-Park ,the largest theme park in Germany.Europa-Park
Photo of Cologne Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral in Cologne, Germany.Cologne Cathedral
NürburgringNürburgring
Cologne Chocolate Museum, Altstadt-Süd, Innenstadt, Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyCologne Chocolate Museum
Old Bridge Heidelberg, Neuenheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyOld Bridge Heidelberg
Rhine Tower, Hafen, Stadtbezirk 3, Dusseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyRheinturm
Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, Stockum, Stadtbezirk 5, Dusseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyAquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
Schloss BenrathSchloss Benrath
photo of VIEW OFSilver Star,Rust Germany.Silver Star
Nord Park, Stockum, Stadtbezirk 5, Dusseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyNord Park
photo of view of Hofgarten, Düsseldorf, Germany.Hofgarten
Burgplatz, Altstadt, Stadtbezirk 1, Dusseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyBurgplatz

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Düsseldorf - arrival day

  • Dusseldorf - Arrival day
  • More
  • Hofgarten
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Düsseldorf has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Hofgarten. This attraction is an english garden and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,417 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Düsseldorf, Uerige. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,926 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Düsseldorf is Takumi. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,216 customers.

Locals recommend BLOCK HOUSE Düsseldorf as one of the best restaurants in the city of Düsseldorf. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,673 customers.

Düsseldorf also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Düsseldorf is Palito Restaurant Düsseldorf. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,493 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Düsseldorf is Im Goldenen Kessel. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,336 customers.

Locals also enjoy o’reilly’s Irish Pub & Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,111 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 5-day vacation in Germany!

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Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Heidelberg

  • Dusseldorf
  • Heidelberg
  • More

Drive 304 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • Nord Park
  • Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
  • Rheinturm
  • Schloss Benrath
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Düsseldorf and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Heidelberg. You will stay in Heidelberg for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Düsseldorf is the amazing Nord Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,892 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible aquarium, Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,180 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination in the Düsseldorf is the outstanding Rheinturm. This popular communication tower and travel destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,916 visitors.

The spectacular Schloss Benrath is another popular attraction you can visit today. This fascinating park and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,559 visitors.

You can make the most of your new day in Düsseldorf by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Germany. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Heidelberg, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Weinstube Schnitzelbank, one of the best restaurants in the city of Heidelberg. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,743 customers.

Locals also recommend Heid's Grill & Restaurant as one of the best restaurants in the city of Heidelberg. Heid's Grill & Restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,269 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Heidelberg is Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,413 customers.

After dinner, visit Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Heidelberg. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,422 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like HANS IM GLÜCK - HEIDELBERG Heiliggeistkirche. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,229 customers.

Alternatively, Sahara Restaurant is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Heidelberg. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,850 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Germany!

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Experiences

Day 3

Day 3 – Heidelberg, Rust, and Karlsruhe

  • Heidelberg
  • Karlsruhe
  • More

Drive 272 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Old Bridge Heidelberg
  • Europa-Park
  • Silver Star
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip through Germany is your chance to discover two places in one day, the city of Heidelberg and the city of Rust. Get ready to experience some of the most famous attractions in the area!

One of the best places to visit in the city of Heidelberg is the amazing Old Bridge Heidelberg. This attraction is a must-see tourist destination and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors.

Joining a top-rated tour in Heidelberg is another excellent way to spend your new day in Germany. The best tours in this travel destination will take you on an exploration to some of Germany’s most well-known attractions and best-kept secrets.

With this tour, you’ll set out on a journey to Germany’s most interesting sights. As you go along this remarkable tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Germany’s scenic spots.

You could then travel to the amazing Silver Star in the city of Rust for some sightseeing. This popular attraction is a hypercoaster and has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 7,829 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Karlsruhe.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try My Heart Beats Vegan, one of the best restaurants in the city of Karlsruhe. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,905 customers.

Locals also recommend Enchilada Karlsruhe as one of the best restaurants in the city of Karlsruhe. Enchilada Karlsruhe is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,846 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Karlsruhe is Lehners Wirtshaus Karlsruhe. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,848 customers.

After dinner, visit Der KofferRaum - Cocktailbar, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Karlsruhe. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 651 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Vogelbräu Karlsruhe. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,187 customers.

Alternatively, Marktlücke is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Karlsruhe. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,823 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Germany!

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Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Nürburg, Cologne, and Düsseldorf

  • Cologne
  • Dusseldorf
  • More

Drive 399 km, 5 hours 8 min

  • Nürburgring
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

Rise and shine on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you'll wake up in Karlsruhe and embark on a scenic drive to Düsseldorf, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 1 night. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Karlsruhe and Cologne before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Karlsruhe. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful Nürburgring. This attraction is a top-tier point of interest that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,289 visitors.

Wave goodbye to Nürburg and continue your journey by car. If you want to break up today’s drive into two, take the opportunity to stop and discover what the city of Cologne has to offer.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Cologne Chocolate Museum. This attraction is a museum that has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,704 visitors.

If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 reviews. This site welcomes approximately 5,000,000 yearly visitors.

When you're done with your sightseeing in Cologne, it's time to continue your drive to the city of Düsseldorf. When you arrive in Düsseldorf you’ll check in at one of the best hotels in the area.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like HeimWerk Altstadt. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,167 customers.

Locals also recommend El Lazo, another of the best restaurants in Düsseldorf. El Lazo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,155 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Konditorei Heinemann. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,103 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.

After dinner, visit The Irish Pub Bei Fatty - Fatty's to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Düsseldorf, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,604 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Sausalitos Dusseldorf. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Sausalitos Dusseldorf has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,447 customers.

Muggel is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,244 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Germany, and look forward to more great days to come!

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Experiences

Day 5

Day 5 – Düsseldorf - departure day

  • Dusseldorf - Departure day
  • More
  • Burgplatz
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Burgplatz is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Düsseldorf. This square and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,480 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Düsseldorf and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Germany.

You could then enjoy your last meal in the city of Düsseldorf at Breidenbacher Hof Düsseldorf before you travel home. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,283 customers.

Alternatively, we also recommend bona'me Düsseldorf for your last chance at a meal in the city of Düsseldorf. The bona'me Düsseldorf restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,723 customers.

If you'd prefer a popular restaurant that locals enjoy, try Sutton's Irish Pub. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 950 customers.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Germany!

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Experiences

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