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

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Cologne Zoological Garden. This notable zoo provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cologne Cathedral, a historic church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Solingen, Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Rubbelrath. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Burg Castle. This interesting castle is an awe-inspiring place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, an eye-catching 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 Gasometer Oberhausen. This well-known museum offers a breathtaking encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Hotel Schloss Dyck to add another highlight to your day. 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.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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 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 establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Engelchen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Cherie for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Auberge Rock Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Düsseldorf for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Duisburg and Düsseldorf to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start by visiting Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Duisburg Zoo, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned zoo renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Düsseldorf by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Tiger & Turtle. This detailed art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Düsseldorf experience. We also recommend visiting Hofgarten, an intriguing park. Nearby, you'll also find Schloss Benrath, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coffee Fellows is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Studio 1, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sakura Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Engel Rockbar, another top-rated place in the area.

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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Düsseldorf on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic aquarium before continuing your journey. Nord Park is your next stop. This beloved park is one of the best-rated sights in Düsseldorf.

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 Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This eye-catching boardwalk is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rheinpromenade and Burgplatz.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Im Goldenen Kessel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konditorei Heinemann. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Paffendorf, Brühl, Heisterbacherrott, and Königswinter. You still have 1 night left in Düsseldorf.

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Schloss Paffendorf. This enchanting castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Phantasialand, a must-visit amusement park in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Brühl Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle. For a change of scene, check out Siebengebirge, known for its standout features. We also recommend visiting Schloss Drachenburg. This castle is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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 reserve a table at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, 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 Okinii Düsseldorf City, 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 Julio, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 7 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 Aachen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aachen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Düsseldorf, including a zoo, a spa, a monument, a church and much more! Start your day at Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This visually striking zoo is an often recommended place to see in Düsseldorf. Then, wander over to Carolus Thermen. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this spa will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Elisenbrunnen. This standout monument is a favorite among visitors.

Düsseldorf offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Aachen Cathedral is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aachen. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 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 AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Aachen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Die Wg, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gin Library provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Domkeller 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Glees, Keldung, Sosberg, 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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Aachen on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing monastery, Maria Laach Abbey. Afterward, continue to Eltz Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Aachen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Geierlay Suspension Bridge. This captivating canopy walk is an essential stop. Following that, head to Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Burgruine Landshut, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Trier, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Trier, including a castle, a monument, and a zoo. Start your day at Stolzenfels Castle. This visually striking castle is an often recommended place to see in Trier. Then, wander over to Deutsches Eck. If culturally significant sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This historic castle is a favorite among visitors.

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

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Flieten Franz, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Donna Mia Trier offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bitburger Wirtshaus. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Trier.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, 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.

Trier is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a lake, a wildlife reserve, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Schalkenmehrener Maar and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun, an instagrammable wildlife reserve that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Metternich Castle, one of the village’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Reichsburg Cochem.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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