Relaxed 13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Dortmund and Frankfurt

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a well-known zoo in the city. Then, head to Rhine Garden Sculpture and soak in the ambiance of this noteworthy park.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Cologne Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most top-rated stunning spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the popular Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cologne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cologne that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Cologne to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Cologne. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Dortmund, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Old Market is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Museum Ludwig, a curiosity-inducing museum, known for its instagrammable features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Wallraf–richartz Museum. This standout museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Rheinpark and Japanese Garden Leverkusen. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dortmund in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dortmund, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Begin your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dortmund.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vater&sohn, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Central Bar & More Dortmund. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Dortmund, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dortmund, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Dortmund on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Westfalenpark is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. St. Reinoldi is your next stop. This worthwhile church is one of the best-rated sights in Dortmund.

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 Brewery-museum Dortmund. This heritage-rich museum is a sight to behold.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dortmund.

Dine in style at Strobels Dortmund, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lord. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a prime location for a drink.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dortmund. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dortmund. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dortmund!

Museum "hawk's Tower" is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to German Football Museum, a locally appreciated museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dortmund U-tower, an eye-catching art installation, also available for your discovery today.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dortmund, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try ALEX Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dortmund.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Start your adventure at Alte Körne. This worthwhile naturschutzgebiet is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Steinwache, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museum Of Art And Cultural History. This often recommended museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hoesch Museum Dortmund, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Florianturm. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dortmund offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dortmund has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider KLUBHAUS1249, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at AMI Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dortmund and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 4 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Frankfurt, and meet locals along the way!

A blend of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Frankfurt on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited park, Huthpark. Afterward, continue to Lohr Park, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Frankfurt’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Historical Museum Frankfurt. This often recommended museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Nizza, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Willy-brandt-platz, Frankfurt, a frequently visited public square in the city.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Frankfurt. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Frankfurt that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Frankfurt to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Frankfurt offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Apfelwein Dax offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ariston Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Frankfurt’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its lively atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Cosy Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Frankfurt!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Old St. Nicholas Church. This increasingly popular church is a culturally significant place to see in Frankfurt. Continue your discovery at Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, a photogenic art gallery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Frankfurt, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Iron Footbridge. This notable monument offers a history-steeped encounter with Frankfurt. Next, make your way to Eurotower to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Alte Oper, an interesting opera house that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Frankfurt.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Chicago Meatpackers, 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 Zum Gemalten Haus. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Frankfurt and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Rote Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Belfordfrankfurt. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Palmengarten, a locally renowned botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Senckenberg Museum, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Messeturm. This monument is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Goethe House. After exploring the museum, head to the well-known Römerberg.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Frankfurt, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Namaste India. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Frankfurt. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Frankfurt, and meet locals along the way!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Frankfurt today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Römer. This awe-inspiring city hall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Frankfurt Cathedral and learn what makes this stunning church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Alte Brücke. After exploring the historical landmark, head to Städel Museum. This worthwhile art museum is a highlight in Frankfurt. As your day continues, stop by Westhafen Tower, known for its picture-perfect features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Frankfurt offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Frankfurt.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 12 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Koblenz and end it in the city of Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Start by visiting Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Marksburg, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular castle renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Frankfurt by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Deutsches Eck. This culturally significant monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Frankfurt experience. We also recommend visiting Eltz Castle, an interesting castle.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Cologne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cologne and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Suderman. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Koblenz can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!