10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling west to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Trier, and Cologne

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Düsseldorf, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Wuppertal. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 30 min. Upon reaching Wuppertal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a captivating zoo known for its stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Wuppertal, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Oberhausen. This drive usually takes around 44 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Gasometer Oberhausen. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Oberhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Duisburg Zoo, another highlight in Duisburg.

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 a true cultural experience.

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

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Düsseldorf and Aachen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aachen, where will spend 1 night.

Burgplatz brings Düsseldorf's character to life. This history-steeped public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Schloss Benrath, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aachen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Carolus Thermen, a frequently visited spa known for its picture-perfect features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Elisenbrunnen, an intriguing monument.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Aachen Cathedral and uncover the details of this UNESCO world heritage-listed church.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Bécasse, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.

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.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Koblenz, Keldung, and Trier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Trier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Keldung, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Koblenz to Keldung may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is a well-known castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Deutsches Eck, a respected monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Keldung. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Keldung, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Eltz Castle, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Keldung should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trier. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Porta Nigra. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Trier 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 Trier.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Trier by booking a table at Bagatelle. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french contemporary and creative cuisine. For another dining option, venture to BECKER'S, celebrated for its delectable creative and classic menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

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.

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

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Germany includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Trier, Sosberg, and Cochem. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally appreciated Trier Amphitheater, a breathtaking archeological site in Trier.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sosberg may take around 1 hour 26 min. Upon your arrival in Sosberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sosberg is Geierlay Suspension Bridge, a well-known canopy walk that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Set your GPS to Cochem and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cochem beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Reichsburg Cochem and explore the standout features. Next, make your way to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh, another highlight in Cochem.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. With 2 nights to stay in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brühl is brimming with adventures.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Brühl, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Brühl may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Königswinter, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brühl to Königswinter may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Königswinter, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Königswinter should see.

Set your GPS to Bonn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bonn beckons with new experiences!

Rheinaue is a well-known park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, an eye-catching performing arts theater that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a historic museum.

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

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.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Don’t miss Schildergasse today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Belgisches Viertel, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Cologne.

Awaiting your discovery is the well-known Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum in Cologne. Next, go to Old Market.

After visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum and Old Market, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cologne Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Limani, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Essen and Dortmund. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Muenster, where you'll spend 1 night.

As you explore Essen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Essen may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Essen is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable museum that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Dortmund, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Dortmund may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dortmund, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an up-and-coming botanical garden in Dortmund. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Dortmund Zoo. This well-known zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Westfalenpark is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic park in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Muenster. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Muenster, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Muenster by booking a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Spitzner, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Muenster. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eulen & Lerchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The James offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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