4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 4-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cologne, Aachen, Düsseldorf, Nideggen, and Bonn.
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 Cologne and 1 night in Düsseldorf. 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 Cologne, 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 Aachen Cathedral, learn more about the unique House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Carolus Thermen.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Aachen, Düsseldorf, Nideggen, and Bonn, 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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Day 1
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Cologne Cathedral
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Welcome to Cologne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Cologne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Cologne 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 Cologne Cathedral, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cologne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Carolus Thermen
- Aachen Cathedral
- Elisenbrunnen
- Königsallee
- Rheinpromenade
- Burgplatz
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Aachen and 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a spa, a church, a monument, a street, a boardwalk, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Carolus Thermen. This often recommended spa is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Aachen Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Elisenbrunnen. This locally appreciated monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Königsallee, where you can take in eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rheinpromenade and Burgplatz. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Brewery im Füchschen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The ASH Düsseldorf. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Engelchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Dusseldorf
- Cologne
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Drive 186 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Nideggen Castle
- Beethoven-Haus Bonn
- Beethoven-Denkmal
- Poppelsdorf Palace
- House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany
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On day 3 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 Nideggen and Bonn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including a castle, a museum, a monument, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Nideggen Castle. This intriguing castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Beethoven-haus Bonn located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Beethoven-denkmal. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Poppelsdorf Palace. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this palace. Next up is House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a highly recommended museum.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Cologne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.
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 4
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Cologne Chocolate Museum
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Day 4 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne 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, begin at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Cologne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Schildergasse. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience 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’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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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