Relaxed 9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 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 Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes a church, a museum, a zoo, a park and much more! Cologne Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Museum Ludwig, a frequently visited museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, a picture-perfect zoo, also available for your discovery today.

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 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.

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 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.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. 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 Cologne!

Don’t miss Schildergasse in Cologne today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Belgisches Viertel, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Cologne.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a cultural center and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Media Park Köln Mbh and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lindt Chocolate Museum, an instagrammable museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Suderman after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

Day 4 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 Bochum. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Düsseldorf, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Start by visiting Zeiss Planetarium Bochum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching planetarium is sure to impress. Next on your list is + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming zoo renowned for its eye-catching features.

We also recommend visiting German Mining Museum, a beloved museum.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Flair, a local favorite known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning french and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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 Düsseldorf. The bars in Düsseldorf make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Düsseldorf. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Burgplatz is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Düsseldorf. Next, head to Rheinpromenade, an up-and-coming boardwalk, known for its visually striking 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 Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This awe-inspiring boardwalk is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Kunstsammlung and Schloss Benrath. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Studio 1, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 2 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 Düsseldorf, and meet locals along the way!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This locally appreciated wildlife reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Japanese Garden, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Nord Park, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Düsseldorf. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this aquarium offers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Düsseldorf. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Im Goldenen Kessel, 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 DORMERO Hotel 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 Konditorei Heinemann, 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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Düsseldorf and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Düsseldorf. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf!

Start by visiting Museum Kunstpalast, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, another must-visit landmark and underrated art gallery renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Düsseldorf by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Hofgarten. This standout park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Düsseldorf experience. We also recommend visiting Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf, a locally appreciated well. Nearby, you'll also find Königsallee, ready to add charm to your journey.

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, Düsseldorf 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 Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Okinii Düsseldorf City, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Julio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

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

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

On day 8 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the impressive Phantasialand, an eye-catching amusement park in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Brühl Castle.

After visiting Phantasialand and Brühl Castle, have a stroll along Düsseldorf's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Schloss Drachenburg. This romantic castle offers a unique experience. Siebengebirge is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Düsseldorf.

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.

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 meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bangkok Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Servus Colonia Alpina. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice 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.

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