Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne

Day 2 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!

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This photogenic aquarium is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the idyllic features of Nord 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 Japanese Garden, an underrated botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, known for its enchanting features. We also recommend visiting Schloss Benrath. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Visit Königsallee in Düsseldorf 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 Königsallee has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 Düsseldorf.

Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Le Flair is known as a top local spot for its delicious french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Studio 1 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sakura Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Engel Rockbar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Duisburg and drive in the direction of the city of Essen for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the notable Duisburg Zoo, an eye-catching zoo in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cologne in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 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.

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 The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 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!

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Rheinpark, a frequently visited park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Market, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Rhine Garden Sculpture. This park is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museum Ludwig. After exploring the museum, head to the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral.

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!

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cologne 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!

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

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Zoological Garden and learn what makes this stunning zoo unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Bonn and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Königswinter and the village of Brühl. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Botanical Garden, Bonn. This worthwhile botanical garden provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinaue, a locally renowned park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Schloss Drachenburg. Round off your day at Phantasialand, another gem in Cologne with picture-perfect features to discover.

In the city of Düsseldorf, 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konditorei Heinemann is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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.

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