Relaxed 13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Dortmund and Frankfurt

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, 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 Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Cologne Zoological Garden. This well-known zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Rhine Garden Sculpture, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Lindt Chocolate Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Cologne and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

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.

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Old Market is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most interesting places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Museum Ludwig, an underrated museum, known for its respected features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Wallraf–richartz Museum. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Rheinpark adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Japanese Garden Leverkusen, a peaceful botanical garden in Cologne.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Dortmund. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

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 Dortmund. The bars in Dortmund make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vater&sohn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 4 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!

Get ready for an exciting day in Dortmund. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a church, and a museum. Begin your adventure at Westfalenpark. This is a captivating park you should not miss. Another must-see is St. Reinoldi, a locally appreciated church in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Brewery-museum Dortmund.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dortmund. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dortmund 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!

Exploring the food culture in Dortmund 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.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Immerse yourself in Dortmund’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Museum "hawk's Tower". Next, dive into the eye-catching features of German Football Museum, a must-visit museum 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 Dortmund U-tower, an underrated art installation.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ALEX Dortmund is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dortmund tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dortmund and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.

On day 6 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!

Start your adventure at Alte Körne. This beloved naturschutzgebiet is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Steinwache, a must-see museum 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 Of Art And Cultural History. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hoesch Museum Dortmund, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Florianturm and Florianturm. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? KLUBHAUS1249 offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss AMI Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Huthpark. This locally appreciated park is a picturesque place to see in Frankfurt. Continue your discovery at Lohr Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Frankfurt, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Historical Museum Frankfurt. This locally appreciated museum offers a photogenic encounter with Frankfurt. Next, make your way to Nizza to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Willy-brandt-platz, Frankfurt, an up-and-coming public square 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 Frankfurt.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Lohninger, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Apfelwein Dax, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ariston Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

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 Frankfurt. The bars in Frankfurt make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Barkello Café Bar Lounge after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Jambo Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Cosy Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Frankfurt, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Frankfurt. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Old St. Nicholas Church is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Frankfurt. Next, head to Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, an up-and-coming art gallery, known for its instagrammable features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Iron Footbridge. This history-steeped monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Eurotower adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Alte Oper, a romantic opera house in Frankfurt.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Frankfurt. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt to find the best options for you!

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 Frankfurt, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

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

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt, and meet locals along the way!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Frankfurt today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Palmengarten. This eye-catching botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Senckenberg Museum and learn what makes this history-steeped museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Messeturm. After exploring the monument, head to Goethe House. This curiosity-inducing museum is a highlight in Frankfurt. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the well-known Römerberg. Enjoy exploring this incredible public square at your own pace.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Namaste India as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Frankfurt.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Frankfurt can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Frankfurt. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the beloved Römer, a historic city hall in Frankfurt. Next, go to Frankfurt Cathedral.

After visiting Römer and Frankfurt Cathedral, take time to explore Frankfurt's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Alte Brücke. This history-steeped historical landmark offers a unique experience. Städel Museum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Westhafen Tower, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Frankfurt.

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 the food culture in Frankfurt 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

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.

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

Day 12 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Koblenz and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Braubach and the village of Keldung. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a captivating castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Marksburg, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Deutsches Eck. This monument is one of the city’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Eltz Castle.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cologne. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Suderman after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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