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.

Start by visiting Cologne Zoological Garden, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rhine Garden Sculpture, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cologne Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum, a locally renowned museum.

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

Visit Hohe Straße in Cologne for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and luxurious stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Hohe Straße has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

Exploring the food culture in Cologne 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 4 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Old Market. This interesting public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Wallraf–richartz Museum, one of the most underrated places to see in Cologne. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinpark. Wander around and soak in the idyllic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Japanese Garden Leverkusen, a top-rated botanical garden that adds another dimension to your day.

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 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

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

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.

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

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 adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Westfalenpark. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy St. Reinoldi, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Brewery-museum Dortmund, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dortmund. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dortmund 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 Dortmund to find the best options for you!

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 delicious dinner at Strobels Dortmund, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lord. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dortmund.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a top-rated bar in the area.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night 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!

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, German Football Museum, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Dortmund U-tower, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern.

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.

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.

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

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across 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 frequently visited naturschutzgebiet is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped 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 up-and-coming museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hoesch Museum Dortmund, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Florianturm. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, KLUBHAUS1249 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at AMI Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dortmund tonight.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dortmund as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday 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!

Immerse yourself in Frankfurt’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Huthpark. This visually striking park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the awe-inspiring features of Lohr Park, a must-visit park 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 Historical Museum Frankfurt, a beloved museum. For a change of scene, check out Nizza, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Willy-brandt-platz, Frankfurt. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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.

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

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Frankfurt. The bars in Frankfurt make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Barkello Café Bar Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Cosy Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Frankfurt. Your adventure starts at Old St. Nicholas Church, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt. This often recommended art gallery is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Frankfurt's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Iron Footbridge. This romantic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Eurotower is also worth visiting, along with Alte Oper. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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!

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.

Savor the flavors at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chicago Meatpackers beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zum Gemalten Haus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.

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

Continue your lively evening at Rote Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Belfordfrankfurt ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Frankfurt. Begin your sightseeing with Palmengarten. This popular botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Senckenberg Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Frankfurt, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Messeturm. This intriguing monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Goethe House, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Römerberg is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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 Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Namaste India is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

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.

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

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the underrated Römer, an awe-inspiring city hall in Frankfurt. Next, go to Frankfurt Cathedral.

After visiting Römer and Frankfurt Cathedral, have a stroll along Frankfurt's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Alte Brücke. This romantic historical landmark offers a unique experience. Städel Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Westhafen Tower, one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in Frankfurt.

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 Frankfurt, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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 12 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This standout castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Marksburg, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Deutsches Eck, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its masterful features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Eltz Castle. This history-steeped castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

In the city of Cologne, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

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 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.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Suderman, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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