5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Stuttgart to Heidelberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Stuttgart and Heidelberg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Staatsgalerie Stuttgart. This heritage-rich art gallery is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Stuttgart. Then, wander over to Mercedes-benz Museum. If standout sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.

Heidelberg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stuttgart behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 36 min. Heidelberg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Heidelberg Castle, a famous castle that everyone visiting Heidelberg should see. Next, head to Philosophers’ Way. This idyllic hiking area is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte). This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Café Bar Goodfellas, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Heidelberg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min.

Next, make your way to Blade Gate, another highlight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. When you’re done exploring the sightseeing destination, continue to Castle Garden, a serene park.

Nearby, you will also find German Christmas Museum. This frequently visited museum is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Medieval Crime Museum, a history-steeped museum that is perfect for some final exploring in the town.

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.

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

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Füssen and Hohenschwangau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and set your GPS to Füssen. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Füssen, 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 Lechfall, an often recommended waterfall that everyone visiting Füssen should see.

Set your GPS to Hohenschwangau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Hohenschwangau beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Hohenschwangau Castle. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Marienbrücke. This locally appreciated point of interest is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Neuschwanstein Castle. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Zur Weinsteige GmbH, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Riedsee. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Stuttgart tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Si-centrum Stuttgart, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mata Hari provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mocha Espresso & Wine offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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