12-Day Germany Road Trip from Bremen traveling west to Essen, Düsseldorf, Trier, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, and Cologne

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Bremen and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bremen for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Bremen is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Town Musicians of Bremen or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bremen. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bremen. 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.

Savor the flavors at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Paulaner's a der Schlachte. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Red Rock stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, wohnzimmer Bremen offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Eisen is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Germany!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bremen has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bremen by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Knoops Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,920 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Universum Science Center. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,240 visitors, this science center deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Rhododendron-Park Bremen. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,069 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Weserwehr. This tram stop and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,454 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Schnoor. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,197 travelers, this street is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Bremen.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

As you explore more of Bremen, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Vengo die Gemüseküche, a popular restaurant in Bremen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bremen at Cafe and Bar Celona, 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 Restaurant Luv. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bremen tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bremerhaven and Dortmund. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bremerhaven and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bremerhaven beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Bremerhaven Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,574 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dortmund. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Westfalenpark, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,165 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Essen. 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and classic menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Essen tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Südrock rock pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. GentleM is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 vibrant destinations - Essen 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 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Essen Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 883 reviews.

Next up, make your way to UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,866 reviews.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Duisburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,756 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,129 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Yoshi by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Le Flair. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Auberge Rock Pub. Alternatively, go to Engel Rockbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,180 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Nord Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,892 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Düsseldorf is Hofgarten. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,417 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Düsseldorf offers an experience you will remember.

Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Düsseldorf. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,759 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Rheinturm. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,916 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Your discoveries in Düsseldorf do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Düsseldorf on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Konditorei Heinemann is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sausalitos Dusseldorf. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Aachen, 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 Trier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Carolus Thermen. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,303 visitors.

When you’re finished at Carolus Thermen, head to Elisenbrunnen. This one-of-a-kind drinking fountain is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,568 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Aachen Cathedral. This imperial cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,155 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This zoo is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,891 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Trier, 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 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Bagatelle in Trier by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Bagatelle offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french contemporary and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore BECKER'S, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and classic cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Additionally, Restaurant Monte Petris is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Trier.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Chrome! offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Studio 11 GBR is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Simplicissimus is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Trier, Nürburg, Koblenz, and Speyer. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Porta Nigra. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,367 visitors.

Nürburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Trier behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min. Nürburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Nürburgring. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,289 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Sonder Bar (Pinte) stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Destille offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Orange Cafe Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 8 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 Heidelberg and Rust. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Old Bridge Heidelberg, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,389 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Heidelberg Palace. Heidelberg Palace is a museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,117 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Heidelberg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rust. Your travel time is around 1 hour 50 min.

Kick off the day at Silver Star, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This hypercoaster is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 7,829 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gleis 25 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. 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 Römerberg. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Frankfurt, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 visitors.

Iron Footbridge is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,044 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Zoo Frankfurt. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,563 reviews.

Alte Oper is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a concert hall rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,371 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Palmengarten, perhaps the most famous botanical garden in Frankfurt. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,050 travelers.

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.

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Toddy Tapper, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Soul Bar Cologne, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cologne Chocolate Museum. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,704 reviews.

Old Market is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 69,905 reviews. Every year, around 5,000,000 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Cologne Zoological Garden is another outstanding experience in Cologne. Around 30,118 travelers have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Cologne, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Cologne below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, 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 Servus Colonia Alpina, 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 Little Link, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Sterkrade and Nordkirchen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bremen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sterkrade. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

Make Gasometer Oberhausen your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this gas holder an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,121 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at SEA LIFE Oberhausen. With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 12,643 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this aquarium every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sterkrade, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nordkirchen may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Nordkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Schloss Nordkirchen. This much-appreciated palace is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,573 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bremen. 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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant ELISA, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Paddy's Pit Irish Pub Bremen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider feldmann's Bierhaus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bremen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Bremen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Take home a piece of Germany with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Journey into the unknown at Martinianleger, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,707 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bremen.

You’ll then say farewell to Bremen. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!