10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Bernkastel-Kues, Trier, and Aachen and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cologne.

Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Belgisches Viertel, a popular neighborhood in Cologne. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Whatever your travel style is, Cologne Zoological Garden is an essential stop in Cologne. This locally renowned zoo provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cologne Cathedral, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Oberhausen, Krefeld, and Rubbelrath. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Gasometer Oberhausen, another must-visit landmark and captivating museum renowned for its standout 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 Krefelder Zoo. This eye-catching zoo is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Hotel Schloss Dyck, an underrated castle.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Engelchen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Cherie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Auberge Rock Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Duisburg and Düsseldorf.

Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord makes a great addition to your morning plans. This popular park is a picture-perfect place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Duisburg Zoo, an instagrammable zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Düsseldorf, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Tiger & Turtle. This increasingly popular art installation offers an eye-catching encounter with Düsseldorf. Next, make your way to Hofgarten to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Schloss Benrath, a captivating palace that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Düsseldorf.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Coffee Fellows. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sakura Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Engel Rockbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Experience Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a notable aquarium in the city. Then, head to Nord Park and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing park.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the boardwalk, visit the underrated Rheinpromenade. Not far away, you'll also find Burgplatz. This public square is a history-steeped highlight in Düsseldorf.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Glees, Koblenz, and Keldung. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues, where will spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Maria Laach Abbey has to offer. This is a locally appreciated monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, an interesting castle in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Deutsches Eck. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Eltz Castle, another of the hamlet’s popular attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bernkastel-Kues. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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 Bernkastel-Kues, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Burgruine Landshut, a popular restaurant in Bernkastel-Kues. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bernkastel-Kues at Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Head back to your accommodation in Bernkastel-Kues and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Graach a der Mosel, Sosberg, and Trier. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Trier, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik, an increasingly popular museum in the village. Then, head to Geierlay Suspension Bridge and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking canopy walk.

There are many interesting places to see in Bernkastel-Kues, and when you are ready for more, go to Trier Amphitheater. This is one of the village’s most increasingly popular culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the notable Porta Nigra.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Trier. Trier 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 Trier's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Bagatelle in Trier by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Bagatelle delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french contemporary and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at BECKER'S, acclaimed for its delectable creative and classic specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Chrome!, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Studio 11 Gbr, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Simplicissimus provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, and Cochem. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Aachen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Schalkenmehrener Maar is an essential stop in Trier. This locally appreciated lake provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun, a gorgeous wildlife reserve, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Reichsburg Cochem, a locally renowned castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Aachen by booking a table at La Bécasse, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional classic french menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Aachen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Die Wg. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gin Library, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Domkeller provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 9 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your adventure in Aachen is only getting started when you visit Elisenbrunnen, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Aachen Cathedral. This notable church is known for its culturally significant appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Aachen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Carolus Thermen. This romantic spa offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Phantasialand is also worth visiting, along with Schloss Drachenburg. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Cologne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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