12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling south to Essen, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz, and Cologne

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

Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a beautiful, a breathtaking, and an instagrammable. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

Nordkirchen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Muenster behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Nordkirchen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Schloss Nordkirchen, an often recommended castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Feldhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nordkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Feldhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Movie Park, a widely recognized amusement park that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, 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 Essen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Essen by securing a table at Hannappel. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and classic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Schote, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Südrock Rock Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gentlem, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Diamond Cocktail Lounge. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen and Duisburg, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a respected, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at the notable Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, an UNESCO world heritage-listed museum in Essen. Next, go to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck.

After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Duisburg Zoo, a captivating zoo known for its stunning features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a captivating park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Engelchen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Cherie, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Auberge Rock Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aquarium, a boardwalk, a public square, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This is a locally renowned aquarium you should not miss. Another must-see is Rheinpromenade, an up-and-coming boardwalk in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Burgplatz. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a standout palace. Schloss Benrath is a truly remarkable place to visit 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 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.

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

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, which will be your home away from home 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 Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle known for its visually striking features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Königswinter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Phantasialand, a top-rated amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aachen, 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 Brühl to Aachen may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Aachen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Aachen Cathedral, an interesting church that everyone visiting Aachen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Elisenbrunnen. This culturally significant monument is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Marktplatz Am Rathaus, a visually striking public square, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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.

As you explore more of Aachen, 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.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Die Wg, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Gin Library offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aachen. Domkeller is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bonn and Cochem. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Bonn’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cochem. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive in Cochem, it's time to take a break from the road.

House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany is a locally renowned museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, a picture-perfect performing arts theater that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Rheinaue, a romantic park.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bonn and set your GPS to Cochem. 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 23 min. Upon reaching Cochem, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Reichsburg Cochem, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Cochem should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Koblenz, 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 Koblenz. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Verbene in Koblenz by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Verbene delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Altes Brauhaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Spökes. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dubai Shisha Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Excalibur - The Rock Cafe, another 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.

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 Koblenz, Keldung, and Sosberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Deutsches Eck, another must-visit landmark and captivating monument renowned for its remarkable features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Keldung. This car ride takes around 46 min.

Head to Eltz Castle, a notable castle in Keldung. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Begin your journey at Geierlay Suspension Bridge and explore the picture-perfect features.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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.

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

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 Zur Tant, a local favorite known for its delightful classic cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Grid Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Toddy Tapper offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a park, a zoo, a museum, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Rheinpark. This increasingly popular park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cologne Zoological Garden, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most beloved museum. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cologne Cathedral.

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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne and Dortmund. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square and a museum. Begin your adventure at Old Market. This is an interesting public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Wallraf–richartz Museum, an underrated museum in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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 Dortmund. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Begin your journey at Rombergpark Botanical Garden and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Westfalenpark, another highlight in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Muenster. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Muenster by securing a reservation at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, 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 Spitzner, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Eulen & Lerchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The James, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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.