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.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a zoo, a church, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Cologne Zoological Garden. Just a short distance away is Cologne Cathedral, a breathtaking church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

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.

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

On day 4 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 Duisburg and Düsseldorf. You still have 3 nights left in Düsseldorf.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Hofgarten. This often recommended park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Schloss Benrath, a history-steeped palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Düsseldorf to Duisburg may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is a popular park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Duisburg Zoo, an eye-catching zoo that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Tiger & Turtle, a detailed art installation.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Coffee Fellows. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sakura Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Engel Rockbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Düsseldorf, including an aquarium, a park, a boardwalk, a public square and much more! Start your day at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This visually striking aquarium is a locally renowned place to see in Düsseldorf. Then, wander over to Nord Park. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This romantic boardwalk 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, Rheinpromenade is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the boardwalk, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Burgplatz. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended public square in Düsseldorf.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Aachen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aachen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, an underrated zoo known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Carolus Thermen, an intriguing spa that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Elisenbrunnen and uncover the details of this symbolic monument. Make sure to also explore Aachen Cathedral, a locally renowned church that offers a unique experience.

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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Die Wg after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Gin Library, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Domkeller also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glees, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Keldung. This drive usually takes around 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Maria Laach Abbey, a locally appreciated monastery 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. Keldung, 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 Glees to Keldung may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Eltz Castle and explore the history-steeped features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sosberg. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Geierlay Suspension Bridge, a locally renowned canopy walk that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 Bernkastel-Kues. Bernkastel-Kues 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Burgruine Landshut, an iconic dining spot in Bernkastel-Kues. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, a popular restaurant in Bernkastel-Kues. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Trier, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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 Koblenz may take around 1 hour 31 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Deutsches Eck, another highlight in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Koblenz and set your GPS to Neuwied. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Neuwied, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Zoo Neuwied, a beloved zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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.

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.

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

On day 11 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 Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Trier’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schalkenmehren. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Schalkenmehren, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Schalkenmehrener Maar, an increasingly popular lake that everyone visiting Schalkenmehren should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun is a curiosity-inducing wildlife reserve we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Weiersbach and set your GPS to Ellenz-Poltersdorf. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Ellenz-Poltersdorf, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Metternich Castle. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Suderman, a top-rated bar in the area.

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