11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Trier, and Bernkastel-Kues and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cologne Cathedral. This historic church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Museum Ludwig, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Malakoffturm, a beloved monument. For a change of scene, check out Lindt Chocolate Museum, known for its eye-catching features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soul Bar Cologne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Belgisches Viertel is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Cologne, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a cultural center, a zoo, and a park. Start your adventure at Media Park Köln Mbh. This curiosity-inducing cultural center is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rheinpark. Its romantic features will captivate you.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 4 vibrant destinations - Solingen, Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Rubbelrath. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. 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. Burg Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout castle before continuing your journey. Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal is your next stop. This captivating zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Gasometer Oberhausen. This picture-perfect museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Hotel Schloss Dyck.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Engelchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aquarium, a park, a boardwalk, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This is a locally renowned aquarium you should not miss. Another must-see is Nord Park, an increasingly popular park in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpromenade, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Burgplatz, a standout place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. 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 Bar Studio 1, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Düsseldorf for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Düsseldorf and Duisburg.

Düsseldorf is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a street, a park, a zoo and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Schloss Benrath and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Königsallee, a stunning street that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Hofgarten, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Duisburg Zoo. When you're finished at the zoo, Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord awaits your visit. This park is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting castle, Schloss Drachenburg. Afterward, continue to Phantasialand, an amusement park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Carolus Thermen. This worthwhile spa is an essential stop. Following that, head to Aachen Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Elisenbrunnen, an up-and-coming monument in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aachen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Bécasse, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional classic french menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aachen at AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Die Wg. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gin Library, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Domkeller provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Koblenz and Keldung, 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 Trier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Aachen includes a castle and a monument. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Deutsches Eck, a popular monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Eltz Castle, a romantic castle, also available for your discovery today.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Trier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Trier by reserving a table at Bagatelle. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french contemporary and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to BECKER'S, renowned for its delectable creative and classic dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trier.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Chrome!, known for its inviting atmosphere. Studio 11 Gbr is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 9 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 Trier and Graach a der Mosel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bernkastel-Kues, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Trier, including a monument, an archeological site, and a museum. Start your day at Porta Nigra. This culturally significant monument is a notable place to see in Trier. Then, wander over to Trier Amphitheater. If breathtaking sites excite you, this archeological site will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Burgruine Landshut, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Sosberg, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bernkastel-Kues is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a canopy walk, a castle, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Geierlay Suspension Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Metternich Castle, a visually striking castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Reichsburg Cochem, one of the village’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Riese 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 Bangkok Thai Restaurant, 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 Servus Colonia Alpina, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!