11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Dortmund and surrounding area

Day 2 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.

Start by visiting Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching aquarium is sure to impress. Next on your list is Nord Park, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile park renowned for its detailed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Düsseldorf by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Japanese Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf also adds charm to your journey, and Schloss Benrath wraps up your day with its romantic appeal.

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 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sakura Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Engel Rockbar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn, 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 4 nights.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Phantasialand, a spectacular amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brühl and set your GPS to Königswinter. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Schloss Drachenburg, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Königswinter, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bonn. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Begin your journey at Gop Varieté-theater Bonn and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, another highlight in the village. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Rheinaue, a serene park.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated! Start at Rheinboulevard, an intriguing boardwalk that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Lindt Chocolate Museum. 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 Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral. This church will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 2 nights left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a market, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Fish Market. This often recommended market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Old Market, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Rhine Garden Sculpture, one of the city’s most intriguing park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museum Ludwig.

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 Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Suderman after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a cultural center, a zoo, a park, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Media Park Köln Mbh. This increasingly popular cultural center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Cologne Zoological Garden, a must-see zoo 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 Rheinpark. This curiosity-inducing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Japanese Garden Leverkusen, where you can take in its serene 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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Essen and Bochum. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Essen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Essen. 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 1 hour 10 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bochum, 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 Essen to Bochum may take around 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bochum, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

+ Fossilium Bochum Zoo is an increasingly popular zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vater&sohn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dortmund has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Dortmund by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dortmund, including a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a zoo and much more! Start your day at German Football Museum. This photogenic museum is a locally appreciated place to see in Dortmund. Then, wander over to Westfalenpark. If serene sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Dortmund offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dortmund Zoo is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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 Dortmund. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Strobels Dortmund, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dortmund at Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, 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 Lord. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dortmund tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Feldhausen and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Feldhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Feldhausen beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Movie Park, an astonishing amusement park known for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 22 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Tiger & Turtle. This frequently visited art installation is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Okinii Düsseldorf City beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Julio. 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!