9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Karlsruhe traveling north to Frankfurt and Cologne

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Karlsruhe. You’ll stay in Karlsruhe for 1 night.

No visit to Karlsruhe is complete without Schlossgarten. This worthwhile park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to State Museum Of Natural History, Karlsruhe, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Karlsruhe, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zoological Gardens Karlsruhe. This interesting zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Zkm | Center For Art And Media Karlsruhe, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Karlsruhe by securing a table at Bistro Margarete. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional regional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit sein, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover TAWA YAMA FINE, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern and international cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Carlos Cocktailbar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Ubu is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Der Kofferraum - Cocktailbar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Mannheim are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Karlsruhe and set your GPS to Mannheim. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Mannheim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Luisenpark, a captivating park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Watertower Of Mannheim and admire its awe-inspiring features.

When you’re ready, continue to Paradeplatz, an increasingly popular public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Jesuit Church, Mannheim, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Lafleur, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Erno's Bistro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gute Stute stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gleis 25 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 1 destination, including Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the interesting Iron Footbridge, a romantic monument in Frankfurt. Next, go to Römerberg.

After visiting Iron Footbridge and Römerberg, have a stroll along Frankfurt's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Alte Oper. This history-steeped opera house offers a unique experience. Palmengarten is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 3 nights to spend in Cologne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Wuppertal may take around 45 min. Upon your arrival in Wuppertal, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a locally renowned zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Wuppertal’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Oberhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 44 min. When you arrive in Oberhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Gasometer Oberhausen, a popular museum in Oberhausen. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Oberhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 17 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a popular park in Duisburg. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Duisburg Zoo. This notable zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Reken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. Reken 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 Wildpark Frankenhof, an up-and-coming wildlife reserve that everyone visiting Reken should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Essen may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Next, make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, another highlight in Essen. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Shaft Xii, a symbolic museum.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Suderman, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Cologne and Brühl.

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Cologne Cathedral is an ideal stop early in the day. This astonishing church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

Upon reaching Brühl, 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 Phantasialand, an astonishing amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cafe Riese Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bangkok Thai Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Servus Colonia Alpina. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Glees and Speyer. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Karlsruhe, where you'll spend 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 Glees.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Glees, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Glees may take around 1 hour 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Glees, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Maria Laach Abbey, an underrated monastery in Glees. Explore its monumental features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Technik Museum Speyer and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Speyer Cathedral, another highlight in Speyer.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Karlsruhe. Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kaiseki Japan Restaurant Karlsruhe, a top-rated dining destination in Karlsruhe. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Osteria Karlsruhe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Palaver. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Karlsruhe this evening.

Keep the evening going at Santo’s Cocktailbar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Leonardo Hotel Karlsruhe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Minibar Karlsruhe, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!