Relaxed 14-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Aachen, and Bernkastel-Kues

Day 2 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!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cologne Zoological Garden, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Old Market. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 travelers.

Wallraf–richartz Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned art museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,793 travelers and attracting 153,566 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Wildlife Park Dünnwald. This well-loved zoo boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,334 reviews.

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.

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.

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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 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!

Drop by the renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Museum Ludwig. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,470 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting around 5,000,000 visitors every year, the fascinating Cologne Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Cologne. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Media Park Köln Mbh. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,045 local and international travelers.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Duisburg. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Düsseldorf, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

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 Cologne to Duisburg may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Duisburg Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Duisburg Inner Harbour is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This inland port has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,519 visitors.

When you’re finished at Duisburg Inner Harbour, the perfect next stop is Rheinpark Duisburg. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,138 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Tiger & Turtle. This sightseeing destination is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,871 reviews.

In the city of Düsseldorf, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese, and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french, and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

Keep the evening going at Engelchen, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Cherie, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Auberge Rock Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

Make Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,905 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,358 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this aquarium every year.

Nord Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,034 visitors.

When you’re finished at Nord Park, the perfect next stop is Japanese Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,176 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ekō-haus Der Japanischen Kultur E. V. This point of interest is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,907 reviews.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Düsseldorf, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Studio 1, known for its lively atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Düsseldorf. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Museum Kunstpalast. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,838 reviews.

Continue your journey at Hofgarten. This english garden is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,488 travelers from near and far.

Düsseldorf is also the home of Königsallee. This thoroughfare has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,608 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Kunstsammlung. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,341 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,015 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this point of interest.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Konditorei Heinemann, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sausalitos Dusseldorf. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

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.

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

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf, and meet locals along the way!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,678 visitors.

Next, make your way to Burgplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,559 reviews.

While in Düsseldorf, we also recommend a visit to Rheinpromenade. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,033 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,034 travelers, this well is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Düsseldorf.

Make your way to Schloss Benrath, perhaps the most famous park in Düsseldorf. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Germany.

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 wonderful meal at Okinii Düsseldorf City, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try Julio, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at SABO Restaurant Düsseldorf. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

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!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aachen. This car ride takes around 1 hour.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,979 visitors.

Next, make your way to Carolus Thermen. This spa is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,446 reviews.

While in Aachen, we also recommend a visit to Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,684 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Aachen Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,481 travelers, this imperial cathedral is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Aachen.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Aachen. 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.

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 Aachen.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Aachen by reserving a table at La Bécasse. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of classic french cuisine. Looking for something different? Kanpai Sushi offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aachen.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Die Wg, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Gin Library, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Domkeller provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Cochem and drive in the direction of the town of Daun for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Bernkastel-Kues, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aachen 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 58 min. Upon reaching Cochem, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bundesbank Bunker. This much-appreciated bunker is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,659 reviews.

Next up is Reichsburg Cochem. This hilltop castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,257 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cochem and set your GPS to Daun. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Daun, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,960 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Schalkenmehren. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schalkenmehrener Maar. This maar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,188 reviews.

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

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Burgruine Landshut, a popular restaurant in Bernkastel-Kues. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Bernkastel-Kues 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!

On day 12 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Koblenz-Stolzenfels, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Koblenz-Stolzenfels will make you fall even more in love with the hamlet and uniqueness of Germany.

After soaking in Koblenz-Stolzenfels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stolzenfels Castle. This extraordinary château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,455 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 reviews.

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

Make Marksburg your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this rocca an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

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

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 Bernkastel-Kues.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bernkastel-Kues and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

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

Day 13 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Brühl and end it in the city of Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brühl, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Phantasialand. This popular amusement park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 1,750,000 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Brühl Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,548 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Set your GPS to Königswinter and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Königswinter beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Drachenburg. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,667 visitors.

Set your GPS to Heisterbacherrott and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heisterbacherrott beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Siebengebirge. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,647 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Cologne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Riese Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bangkok Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Servus Colonia Alpina as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

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

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