9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Essen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dortmund. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, an art installation, a botanical garden, a zoo and much more! Begin your adventure at German Football Museum. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Dortmund U-tower, a curiosity-inducing art installation in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dortmund Zoo, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions.

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.

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

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Essen has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Essen by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start by visiting Shaft Xii, a prime spot to begin your journey. This symbolic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, another must-visit landmark and interesting museum renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Essen by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kokerei Zollverein. This breathtaking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Essen experience. We also recommend visiting Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a worthwhile laser tag arena. Nearby, you'll also find Villa Hügel, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 Essen. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining destination in Essen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Banana Leaf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Artemis. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Essen this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Metropol Café-bar Essen, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Temple Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zum Pümpchen provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Oberhausen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Essen. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, a zoo, an art installation and much more! Begin your adventure at Gasometer Oberhausen. This is a locally renowned museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a popular park in Essen.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Duisburg Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Tiger & Turtle, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

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

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Flair, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for french and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Engelchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cherie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Burgplatz. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hofgarten and learn what makes this peaceful park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Nord Park. After exploring the park, head to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This interesting aquarium is a highlight in Düsseldorf. As your day continues, stop by Schloss Benrath, known for its visually striking features.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse 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 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Schildergasse, a street that captures the true essence of Cologne. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering a different perspective on Cologne.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a church, a public square, and a museum. Start your day at Cologne Cathedral. This breathtaking church is a famous place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Old Market. If romantic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.

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

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

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.

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

On day 8 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 Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Phantasialand, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable amusement park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Schloss Drachenburg, another must-visit landmark and popular castle renowned for its enchanting 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 Gop Varieté-theater Bonn. This visually striking performing arts theater is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a popular museum. Nearby, you'll also find Rheinaue, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Brasserie Lotte, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ALEX Dortmund? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dortmund.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!