12-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Bernkastel-Kues, and Trier and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 3 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.

Cologne 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 Rheinpark 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 Cologne. 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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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.

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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral gets 5,000,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Museum Ludwig. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,470 reviews. Usually, around 304,942 people visit Museum Ludwig every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Japanese Garden Leverkusen. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,239 visitors.

You can learn more about Cologne today by going on a tour. Cologne offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french, and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Zur Tant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 3 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.

Make Forstbotanischer Garten und Friedenswald your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,502 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Fish Market. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,803 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Old Market is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

When you’re finished at Old Market, the perfect next stop is Wallraf–Richartz Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,793 reviews. Wallraf–Richartz Museum attracts approximately 153,566 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at Suderman, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 3 vibrant destinations - Wuppertal, Sterkrade, 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 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Wuppertal 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. Wuppertal beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,835 reviews.

After soaking in Wuppertal’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sterkrade. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 44 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gasometer Oberhausen, a remarkable gas holder where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,693 reviews.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Yoshi by Nagaya, a local gem known for its delightful japanese, and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Engelchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cherie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 2 nights left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,358 reviews.

Continue your journey at Nord Park. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,034 travelers from near and far.

Düsseldorf is also the home of Japanese Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,176 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,905 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Hofgarten. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this english garden.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Studio 1, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sakura Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Engel Rockbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Wildpark im Grafenberger Wald. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,678 reviews.

Rheinpromenade is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,033 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Burgplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,559 reviews.

Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is another outstanding experience in Düsseldorf. Around 5,015 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Schloss Benrath is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Düsseldorf on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones 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.

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.

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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Düsseldorf, 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Tritonenbrunnen in Düsseldorf. Previous visitors have rated this well an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,034 reviews.

Königsallee is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This thoroughfare is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,608 reviews.

Set your GPS to Aachen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Aachen beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Carolus Thermen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,446 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Elisenbrunnen. Elisenbrunnen is a drinking fountain with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,684 reviews.

Aachen Cathedral is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This imperial cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,481 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aachen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kanpai Sushi, a popular restaurant in Aachen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Die WG is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Gin Library, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Domkeller. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cochem, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Sosberg, 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 Bernkastel-Kues. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cochem. This car ride takes around 1 hour 57 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Historische Senfmühle Dehren GmbH is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,885 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Reichsburg Cochem. This hilltop castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,257 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cochem, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ellenz-Poltersdorf may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Ellenz-Poltersdorf, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Metternich castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,499 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Bernkastel-Kues, 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.

Savor the flavors at Burgruine Landshut, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 9 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 Gondorf, and Trier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trier, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gondorf and set your GPS to Trier. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Trier, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Eifelpark. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,666 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Trier. This car ride takes around 41 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Trier Amphitheater. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,939 reviews.

Continue your journey at Porta Nigra. This city gate is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,950 travelers from near and far.

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 Trier. Trier 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Trier. 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Bagatelle, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french contemporary, and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, BECKER'S is one of the best restaurants for creative, and classic cuisine in Trier. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Chrome!, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Studio 11 GBR offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Keldung, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Trier for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Keldung, and Koblenz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set your GPS to Keldung and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Keldung beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Eltz Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

After soaking in Keldung’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 48 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Eck. This headland is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Koblenz, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,555 visitors.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

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 a lovely meal at Flieten Franz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Donna Mia Trier is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bitburger Wirtshaus. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Trier tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Daun, Schalkenmehren, Brühl, Königswinter, and Heisterbacherrott. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Trier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Daun may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in Daun, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Holzmaar. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 417 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Daun, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Schalkenmehren. This drive usually takes around 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Schalkenmehrener Maar. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,188 visitors.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne 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 Cologne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinboulevard. This extraordinary promenade is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,235 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Em Krützche, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Délirium Café Cologne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!