13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne, Bernkastel-Kues, Koblenz, Düsseldorf, and Essen

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you still have 4 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Krefeld and Oberhausen.

Krefelder Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Sea Life Oberhausen, a notable aquarium, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Gasometer Oberhausen, a breathtaking museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

Cologne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Lindt Chocolate Museum brings Cologne's character to life. This picture-perfect museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Old Market, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s most widely recognized attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Cologne Zoological Garden. This visually striking zoo is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Rheinaue leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most captivating places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, an often recommended performing arts theater, known for its visually striking 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 House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This history-steeped museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Schloss Drachenburg and Phantasialand. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bangkok Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Servus Colonia Alpina. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 places, which are Koblenz and Trier. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues, where will spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This captivating castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Deutsches Eck located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Porta Nigra. Its UNESCO world heritage-designated features will captivate you.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burgruine Landshut, a top-rated dining destination in Bernkastel-Kues. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Düsseldorf and Duisburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Visiting Rheinpromenade is always a good idea. This intriguing boardwalk is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Burgplatz, a must-see public square 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 Hofgarten. This intriguing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, where you can take in breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Essen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a memorable dining experience in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Essen, Schote shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Kettner's Kamota is known as a top local spot in Essen for its delicious austrian and french contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Südrock Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gentlem, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Greet day 11 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Essen, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bochum and Essen.

Start your day at + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This photogenic zoo is a locally appreciated place to see in Essen. Then, wander over to Bochum Park. Nearby, you’ll also find German Mining Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a favorite among visitors.

Essen offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Essen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Banana Leaf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Artemis. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Essen tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Gelsenkirchen, Bottrop, and Feldhausen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

Nordstern Park is an ideal stop early in the day. This often recommended park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tetrahedron In Bottrop, which may be one of the most detailed places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Essen 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 Movie Park, a spectacular amusement park in the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!