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

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

Make time for Cologne Cathedral, a top-rated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Museum Ludwig, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Malakoffturm. This monument is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Lindt Chocolate 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.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

On day 3 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.

A top thing to do today is to explore Belgisches Viertel, a must-see neighborhood in Cologne. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Media Park Köln Mbh makes a great addition to your morning plans. Continue your discovery at Cologne Zoological Garden, a breathtaking zoo 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 Rheinpark. This frequently visited park offers a serene encounter with Cologne. 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.

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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Suderman, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Say good night to Cologne and look forward to another great 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 4 places, which are Solingen, Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Rubbelrath. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf, where will spend 3 nights.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Le Flair is known as a top local spot in Düsseldorf for its delicious french and contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf brings Düsseldorf's character to life. This photogenic aquarium is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Nord Park, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, one of the city’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Rheinpromenade. This romantic boardwalk is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Burgplatz, a frequently visited public square, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Studio 1. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Engel Rockbar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Düsseldorf, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Düsseldorf and Duisburg.

One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Schloss Benrath. This history-steeped palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Königsallee and learn what makes this instagrammable street unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Hofgarten. After exploring the park, head to Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo is a highlight in Düsseldorf. As your day continues, stop by Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, known for its instagrammable features.

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

Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf.

Dine in style at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Konditorei Heinemann. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Germany includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Schloss Drachenburg, a notable castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Phantasialand, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Carolus Thermen. This spa is one of the town’s most often recommended 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 Aachen Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the locally appreciated Elisenbrunnen.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aachen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Bécasse, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional classic french menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aachen at AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Die Wg, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Gin Library is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Domkeller also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Koblenz and Keldung. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Trier, where you'll spend 1 night.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress brings Aachen's character to life. This culturally significant castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Deutsches Eck, another awe-inspiring attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Eltz Castle, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Trier by securing a reservation at Bagatelle. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french contemporary and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit BECKER'S, celebrated for its delectable creative and classic menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Chrome! This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Studio 11 Gbr offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Simplicissimus, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 9 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Trier and Graach a der Mosel are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bernkastel-Kues, where you will stay for 1 night.

Experience Porta Nigra, a captivating monument in the city. Then, head to Trier Amphitheater and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Trier, and when you are ready for more, go to Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bernkastel-Kues, 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 Bernkastel-Kues. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burgruine Landshut, a top-rated dining spot in Bernkastel-Kues. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Sosberg, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Geierlay Suspension Bridge is must-visit canopy walk and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Metternich Castle, a locally appreciated castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Reichsburg Cochem, a history-steeped castle, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Riese Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bangkok Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Servus Colonia Alpina as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

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