14-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne, Aachen, Düsseldorf, Bremen, and Hamburg and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dortmund for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Dortmund is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Dasa Working World Exhibition. Just a short distance away is German Football Museum, an instagrammable museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Dortmund Zoo.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Dortmund as you explore Westenhellweg. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Westenhellweg offers more options, including restaurants, cafes, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Solingen, Oberhausen, and Essen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 5 nights.

Today's adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Burg Castle. This breathtaking castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Gasometer Oberhausen, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This breathtaking museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 4 nights more.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a zoo, a marina, an art installation and much more! Begin your adventure at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This is an interesting park you should not miss. Another must-see is Duisburg Zoo, a locally renowned zoo in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Duisburg Inner Harbour. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpark Duisburg, another of the city’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Tiger & Turtle, a detailed place of interest in the city.

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 an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a museum, a public square, a church, a zoo and much more! Start your day at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum is a captivating place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Old Market. If enchanting sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cologne Cathedral. This picture-perfect church 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, Cologne Zoological Garden is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Cochem and Ellenz-Poltersdorf. You still have 2 nights left in Cologne.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Reichsburg Cochem, a notable castle in the town. Then, head to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne and when you are ready for more, go to Metternich Castle. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Servus Colonia Alpina. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a lake, an observation deck, and a wildlife reserve. Start your day with a visit to Schalkenmehrener Maar. This increasingly popular lake is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dronketurm, which may be one of the most romantic 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 Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun, an up-and-coming wildlife reserve in the village.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Em Krützche, 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 My Curry Wurst, 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 Délirium Café Cologne, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Aachen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Aachen. Your adventure starts at Aachen Cathedral, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Elisenbrunnen. This curiosity-inducing monument is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Aachen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Carolus Thermen. This picture-perfect spa offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo is also worth visiting.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Engelchen. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences in Düsseldorf. Begin your sightseeing with Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This notable aquarium is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Nord Park, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Düsseldorf, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Japanese Garden. This often recommended botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Hofgarten, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Schloss Benrath and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most interesting attractions.

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 explore more of Düsseldorf, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Coffee Fellows. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 11 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 Düsseldorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated art gallery, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. Afterward, continue to Burgplatz, a public square every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Rheinpromenade. This frequently visited boardwalk is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Rheinturm, a notable observation deck in the city.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bremen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Robben, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Market Hall Eight Bremen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bremen.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Bremen and Bremerhaven, 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bremen is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Town Musicians Of Bremen, a popular literary work that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Schnoor, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Bremerhaven Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bremen at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hamburg. Hamburg 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 Hamburg's best restaurants.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Haerlin, recognized for its delicious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 13 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Hamburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Hamburg includes a museum, a concert hall, a historical landmark, a botanical garden and much more! Miniatur Wunderland is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an astonishing concert hall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Elbe Tunnel, a gorgeous historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Hamburg. If you’re looking for more, Planten Un Blomen is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Dortmund, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a highly-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're eager to try something different, consider ALEX Dortmund, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

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