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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a church, a museum, and a monument. Start your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This widely recognized church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Museum Ludwig, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Malakoffturm. This locally appreciated monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, where you can take in eye-catching features.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Belgisches Viertel is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Cologne. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Media Park Köln Mbh. This increasingly popular cultural center is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cologne Zoological Garden, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Rheinpark. This locally appreciated park is a traveler-favorite.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 4 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 Solingen, Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Rubbelrath. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Burg Castle, a well-known castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Gasometer Oberhausen. This museum is one of the city’s most locally renowned 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 Hotel Schloss Dyck.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Flair, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for french and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aquarium, a park, a boardwalk, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This is a captivating aquarium you should not miss. Another must-see is Nord Park, a beloved park in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpromenade, another of the city’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Burgplatz, an enchanting place of interest in the city.

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.

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

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 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.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Düsseldorf, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Schloss Benrath, an interesting palace in the city. Then, head to Königsallee and soak in the ambiance of this romantic street.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf and when you are ready for more, go to Hofgarten. This is one of the city’s most intriguing spots. After exploring the park, visit the interesting Duisburg Zoo. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a captivating park in the city.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konditorei Heinemann. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Say good night to Düsseldorf and look forward to another great 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, Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aachen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the interesting Schloss Drachenburg, an awe-inspiring castle in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Phantasialand.

After visiting Schloss Drachenburg and Phantasialand, take time to explore Düsseldorf's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Carolus Thermen. This romantic spa offers a unique experience. Aachen Cathedral is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Elisenbrunnen, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Düsseldorf.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Aachen by booking a table at La Bécasse. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Die Wg, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Gin Library offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Domkeller provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz and Keldung. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Trier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Aachen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This standout castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Deutsches Eck, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Eltz Castle, a captivating castle.

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

As you explore more of Trier, 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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Chrome!, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Studio 11 Gbr is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Simplicissimus is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 2 vibrant destinations - Trier and Graach a der Mosel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Trier. Begin your sightseeing with Porta Nigra. This interesting monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Trier Amphitheater, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Trier, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik. This up-and-coming museum is a traveler-favorite.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burgruine Landshut, a highly-rated dining destination in Bernkastel-Kues. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Sosberg, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Geierlay Suspension Bridge is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning canopy walk before continuing your journey. Metternich Castle is your next stop. This beloved castle 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 Reichsburg Cochem. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Riese Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bangkok Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Servus Colonia Alpina, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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