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 across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne is Belgisches Viertel. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a locally renowned zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cologne Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Bring home unique finds from Cologne's bustling shopping hub, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel). Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Oberhausen, Krefeld, and Rubbelrath. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This interesting zoo is an awe-inspiring place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Gasometer Oberhausen, a stunning museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Krefelder Zoo. This interesting zoo offers a picture-perfect encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Hotel Schloss Dyck to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Engelchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Cherie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

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

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a popular park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Duisburg Zoo, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Tiger & Turtle. This art installation is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Düsseldorf at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Hofgarten. After exploring the park, head to the popular Schloss Benrath.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coffee Fellows is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Studio 1. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sakura Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This well-known aquarium provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Nord Park, an idyllic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, an often recommended boardwalk. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Rheinpromenade. Round off your day at Burgplatz, another gem in Düsseldorf with enchanting features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

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.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Glees, Koblenz, and Keldung. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bernkastel-Kues, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a monastery, a castle, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Maria Laach Abbey. This often recommended monastery is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Deutsches Eck, a well-known monument in the hamlet. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Eltz Castle.

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

As you explore more of Bernkastel-Kues, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Burgruine Landshut, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Graach a der Mosel, Sosberg, and Trier, 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 Trier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Bernkastel-Kues on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. Geierlay Suspension Bridge is your next stop. This captivating canopy walk is one of the best-rated sights in Bernkastel-Kues.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Trier Amphitheater. This breathtaking archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Porta Nigra.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bagatelle, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french contemporary and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, BECKER'S, known for its delicious creative and classic cuisine.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Chrome!, known for its inviting atmosphere. Studio 11 Gbr is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 8 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 Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, and Cochem. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aachen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Trier. Your adventure starts at Schalkenmehrener Maar, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun. This often recommended wildlife reserve is known for its idyllic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Trier's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Reichsburg Cochem. This history-steeped castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh is also worth visiting.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. 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.

Keep the evening going at Die Wg, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Gin Library, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Domkeller, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Aachen includes a monument, a church, a spa, an amusement park, a castle and much more! Elisenbrunnen is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Aachen Cathedral, an interesting church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Carolus Thermen, an instagrammable spa, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Aachen. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the astonishing Phantasialand. If you’re looking for more, Schloss Drachenburg is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Limani, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Suderman, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!