13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Munich, and Bamberg

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

Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Belgisches Viertel, a popular neighborhood in Cologne. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

No visit to Cologne is complete without Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This intriguing point of interest is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Duftmuseum Im Farina Haus, 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 Old Market. This notable public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cologne Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Museum Ludwig 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 experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Cologne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Koblenz-Stolzenfels, Koblenz, and Remagen. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Koblenz-Stolzenfels. 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 1 hour 23 min. Upon reaching Koblenz-Stolzenfels, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Stolzenfels Castle, a worthwhile castle that everyone visiting Koblenz-Stolzenfels should see.

After soaking in Koblenz-Stolzenfels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Koblenz is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a captivating castle that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Deutsches Eck, a picture-perfect monument that stands out in the hamlet.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Remagen. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Peace Museum Bridge At Remagen and explore the culturally significant features.

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.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Suderman after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg, where will spend 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Heidelberg. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Heidelberg Castle is an astonishing castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Heidelberger Marktplatz, a standout public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a symbolic church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Old Bridge Heidelberg, an enchanting and truly unique historical landmark.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Heidelberg, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Baden-Baden.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Baden-Baden. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Baden-Baden is Battertfelsen At Hohenbaden Castle, an underrated castle that draws attention for its respected features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Trinkhalle, a picture-perfect museum that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Museum Frieder Burda, a locally appreciated museum that offers a unique experience.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Heidelberg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider VINCIdue, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essighaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Destille, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Orange Cafe Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Lenox Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rothenburg ob der Tauber are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heidelberg behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. Rothenburg ob der Tauber welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Toppler Castle, a worthwhile castle known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Blade Gate, a beloved sightseeing destination.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) and uncover the details of this enchanting public square. Make sure to also explore Medieval Crime Museum, an underrated museum. For your last stop, consider Town Hall, an eye-catching city hall that many travelers find worth the detour.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Nuremberg. With 1 night to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nuremberg may take around 1 hour 26 min. Upon your arrival in Nuremberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nuremberg Castle, a captivating castle known for its stunning features. Next, continue your sightseeing at St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg, a locally appreciated church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Schöner Brunnen and uncover the details of this breathtaking monument. Make sure to also explore Nürnberg Altstadt, a frequently visited historical landmark.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's best restaurants.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Munich. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Munich, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and set your GPS to Munich. 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 2 hours 34 min. Upon reaching Munich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to English Garden, a spectacular park in Munich. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Hofgarten. This beloved park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Frauenkirche is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the widely recognized Viktualienmarkt and discover what makes this food market unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Marienplatz, a visually striking public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Munich is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Munich.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Little London / Bar & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ginkgo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Munich.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Garçon stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Zephyr Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Holy Spirit 1 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Munich and Karlsfeld.

Whether you decide to explore Munich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Nymphenburg Palace. This romantic palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Olympiapark and learn what makes this gorgeous park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Bmw Museum.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Karlsfeld. This car ride takes around 18 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Erholungsgebiet Karlsfelder See, an increasingly popular lake in Karlsfeld. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Munich is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Munich.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top-rated dining destination in Munich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zum Dürnbräu, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Alten Markt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Munich this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pusser's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Ory Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Harry's is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Munich, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Munich, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hohenschwangau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hohenschwangau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 47 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Hohenschwangau Castle, a well-known castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready, continue to Neuschwanstein Castle, an impressive castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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

Dine in style at Le Clou, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Munich.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Boilerman Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Koli's Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 11 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bamberg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bamberg, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bamberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bamberg beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Michelsberg Monastery. Spend some time admiring the inviting features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Bamberg Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Bamberg Old Town. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Sammlung Ludwig Bamberg Im Alten Rathaus I Museen Der Stadt Bamberg, a worthwhile museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Rathaus, known for its culturally significant features.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bamberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Head back to your accommodation in Bamberg and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Würzburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Würzburg.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bamberg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Würzburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Würzburg Residence and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Wurzburg Cathedral, another highlight in Würzburg. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Old Main Bridge, a romantic historical landmark.

Nearby, you will also find Marienberg Fortress. This well-known castle is a top place to see in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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