10-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling south to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Mainz, and Cologne

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, 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 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to German Football Museum. This sports museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dortmund, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,503 visitors.

Dasa Working World Exhibition is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,040 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Dortmund Zoo. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 15,732 reviews.

Casino Hohensyburg is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a casino rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 2,302 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Düsseldorf, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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 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, Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese 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, Yoshi by Nagaya is known as a top local spot for its delicious japanese, and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Engelchen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Cherie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set your GPS to Solingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Solingen beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Burg Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,193 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sterkrade. This drive usually takes around 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gasometer Oberhausen. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,693 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Make Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Duisburg Zoo. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Studio 1, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sakura Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Düsseldorf, and Aachen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Hofgarten. This english garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,488 reviews.

Continue your journey at Schloss Benrath. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,705 travelers from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aachen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 4 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Carolus Thermen. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,446 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,684 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Aachen Cathedral. This imperial cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,481 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aachen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin 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. Or, for a change of pace, Kanpai Sushi boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Continue your lively evening at Die Wg, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Gin Library is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Domkeller ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Brühl, Königswinter, and Heisterbacherrott. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mainz. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 51 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 visitors. Each year, around 1,750,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Brühl Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,548 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Königswinter, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brühl to Königswinter may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Königswinter, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Drachenburg. This extraordinary château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Mainz, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Mainz by reserving a table at Geberts Weinstuben. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of classic, and seasonal cuisine. For a different taste, head over to FAVORITE restaurant, renowned for its delectable modern french, and creative dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Mainz.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Wallenstein Cafe & Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Rheinstrand Mainz offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Nirgendwo. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Mainz, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

After soaking in Mainz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mannheim. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Mannheim, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Watertower Of Mannheim. This much-appreciated water tower is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,295 reviews.

Next up is Luisenpark. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,730 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Speyer. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Take the opportunity to see Speyer Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,279 visitors.

Technik Museum Speyer is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,541 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Mainz and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Nolda | Noldas Café und mehr, a top-rated dining destination in Mainz. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sixties, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at HANS IM GLÜCK Burgergrill. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Mainz this evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Mainz, Koblenz, and Keldung. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mainz Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,317 visitors.

After soaking in Mainz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular fortress has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Deutsches Eck. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,555 visitors, this headland deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cologne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french, and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern, and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Zur Tant. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 8 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Bonn, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bonn, and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cologne Zoological Garden, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 5,000,000 people visit it every year.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bonn, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Bonn may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bonn, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Rheinaue, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,543 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is RheinZeit. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 9 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 Essen, and Gelsenkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Essen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Essen beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Museum Folkwang. This art museum typically receives around 800,000 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,999 reviews.

Continue your journey at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,211 travelers from near and far.

Essen is also the home of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Shaft Xii. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,333 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gelsenkirchen. This car ride takes around 11 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Nordstern Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,453 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Stage offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern, and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Grammons Restaurant, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary, and classic french cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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

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