5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne and Cochem

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Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
Photo of old harbor tower clock at Dortmund.
Photo of Dortmund city centre aerial panoramic view.
Photo of Florianturm or Florian Tower telecommunications tower and Westfalenpark in Dortmund.
Photo of Dortmund historic city hall germany
Photo of Rose Garden in Dortmund,Germany.
Photo of Hoesch Museum Dortmund,Germany.
Photo of Smart City Dortmund,Germany
photo of view of Phoenix See Dortmund Germany !.
Dortmund, Downtown, Town house, Germany.
photo of view of Dortmund, Germany.
Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund district Horde
Scenic summer evening panorama of architecture around Phoenix See in Dortmund, Germany
photo of view of Dortmund, Germany.
Aerial view of the cathedral in Cologne and Hohenzollern bridge over Rhein, Germany
Photo of Cologne sunset city skyline with Cologne Cathedral and Rhine River, Cologne, Germany.
Photo of Cologne's cathedral.
Photo of flora Botanical garden in Cologne.
Photo of happy tourist girl holding a German flag against the Rhine bridge and Cologne Dom Cathedral.
Photo of church Gross St Martin with unique colorful houses in the old town of Cologne, Germany.
Photo of Gross Saint Martin in Cologne, Germany.
Photo of detail of the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.
Photo of the cozy patio with green in the center of Cologne, Germany.
Photo of young happy tourist with a German flag at the old town or Altstadt in Cologne fish market square.
Photo of Cologne Koln, Germany, Panorama view of the Rhine River with Hohenzollernbrücke.
Photo of Cologne city skyline in summer along the Rhine river, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
photo of view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge through Rhine river aerial panoramic view in Cologne, Germany
photo of view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge through Rhine river aerial panoramic view in Cologne, Germany
photo of view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge through Rhine river aerial panoramic view in Cologne, Germany
Photo of Cochem, Germany. Old town and the Cochem (Reichsburg) castle on the Moselle river.Germany
Photo of Old city of Cochem, Moselle, Germany
Photo of A road through bright color vineyards in Ellenz-Poltersdorf village and Beilstein village in the background in Cochem-Zell district, Germany
Photo of Cochem town and vineyards aerial panoramic view in Moselle valley, Germany
Photo of Reichsburg castle in Cochem, Germany.
Photo of Cochem town and vineyards aerial panoramic view in Moselle valley, Germany
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Cochem. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Dortmund, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Deutsches Eck, learn more about the unique Porta Nigra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Reichsburg Cochem.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.

Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
RheinboulevardCologne Chocolate MuseumCologne CathedralBeethoven-Haus BonnBeethoven-Denkmal
Ehrenbreitstein FortressSeilbahn Koblenz - TalstationEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckCochem CastleHistorische Senfmühle Dehren GmbHPinnerkreuz
Liebfrauenkirche, TrierPorta NigraTrier AmphitheaterMonschau
Rombergpark Botanical Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
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Say hello to Dortmund! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dortmund for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dortmund. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Meeting, die Café-Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Zum Alten Markt offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ringhotel Drees. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vater&sohn, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Loka Lounge Dortmund, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
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Drive 164 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Rheinboulevard
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Beethoven-Haus Bonn
  • Beethoven-Denkmal
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cologne and Bonn. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Rheinboulevard. This visually striking boardwalk is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Lindt Chocolate Museum, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Beethoven-haus Bonn. This history-steeped museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Beethoven-denkmal, an underrated monument, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Cochem
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Drive 174 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Cochem Castle
  • Historische Senfmühle Dehren GmbH
  • Pinnerkreuz
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Koblenz and Cochem. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cochem, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a tramway, a monument, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This is a popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation, an up-and-coming tramway in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Deutsches Eck. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Reichsburg Cochem, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh, a history-steeped place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Pinnerkreuz to your itinerary. This up-and-coming monument offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Cologne.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kelsey's Eck, a prime location for a drink.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cochem
  • Dortmund
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Drive 401 km, 5 hours 32 min

  • Liebfrauenkirche, Trier
  • Porta Nigra
  • Trier Amphitheater
  • Monschau
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Trier and Monschau, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cochem, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Liebfrauenkirche, a locally appreciated church in the city. Then, head to Porta Nigra and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Cochem, and when you are ready for more, go to Trier Amphitheater. This is one of the city’s most beloved awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the increasingly popular Monschau.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dortmund's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Strobels Dortmund, an iconic dining spot in Dortmund. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Lord, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, where the evening is just getting started.

Say good night to Dortmund and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an eye-catching botanical garden before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dortmund’s shopping center, the lively Dortmund Indoor Market Hall. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.

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.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!

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