Relaxed 12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Dortmund

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Düsseldorf, and meet locals along the way!

Catch Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth before the crowds roll in. This enchanting castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a must-visit aquarium in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Nord Park, a worthwhile park. For a change of scene, check out Japanese Garden, known for its mesmerizing features. We also recommend visiting Schloss Benrath. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Düsseldorf.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Pink Pepper delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Yoshi by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese and sushi specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Le Flair, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Düsseldorf, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hofgarten, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Burgplatz, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Rheinpromenade. When you're finished at the boardwalk, Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf awaits your visit. This boardwalk is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Düsseldorf. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Düsseldorf that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Düsseldorf to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Düsseldorf offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Düsseldorf.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

Rheinpark makes a great addition to your morning plans. This intriguing park is a serene place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Rheinboulevard, an enchanting boardwalk 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 Deutz Suspension Bridge. Next, make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, an intriguing museum that’s sure to impress. 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.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cologne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Start your day at Fish Market. This instagrammable market is a worthwhile place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Old Market. If history-steeped sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rhine Garden Sculpture. This visually striking park is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Museum Ludwig is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the majestic Cologne Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this spectacular church.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Suderman, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Schildergasse, a popular street in Cologne. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Check out the frequently visited cultural center, Media Park Köln Mbh. Afterward, continue to Cologne Zoological Garden, a zoo every traveler should visit. As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Germany offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Feldhausen and end it in Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Germany.

Set your GPS to Feldhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Feldhausen beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Movie Park. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the amusement park before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bottrop. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bottrop is Tetrahedron In Bottrop, an often recommended art installation that draws attention for its detailed features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gelsenkirchen. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Nordstern Park is a curiosity-inducing park we recommend visiting today. Discover its noteworthy features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Germany as you make your way to Dortmund. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dortmund, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vater&sohn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Loka Lounge Dortmund provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dortmund as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dortmund. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dortmund. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dortmund!

To truly experience Dortmund, make sure to drop by Westfalenpark. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Florianturm, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Rombergpark Botanical Garden, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Dortmund. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dortmund Zoo. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this zoo offers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Düsseldorf. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Düsseldorf that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dortmund to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Dine in style at Strobels Dortmund, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lord. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dortmund’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Dortmund, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dortmund, and meet locals along the way!

Dortmund is brimming with adventures.

Visiting Dasa Working World Exhibition is always a good idea. This up-and-coming museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Dortmund U-tower, a must-see art installation 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 Museum Ostwall. This up-and-coming museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to German Football Museum, where you can take in heritage-rich features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dortmund offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dortmund.

Savor the flavors at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALEX Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dortmund tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Dortmund and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Essen and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Duisburg and Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dortmund, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Essen. This drive usually takes around 39 min.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a popular museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Essen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 18 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Duisburg Zoo and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another highlight in Duisburg.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Düsseldorf. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Germany.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Düsseldorf.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Düsseldorf. The bars in Düsseldorf make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!