3-Day Germany Road Trip Starting in Cologne
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 3-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cologne, Duisburg, and Essen. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Cologne. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cologne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and Unesco-welterbe Zollverein are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Duisburg, and Essen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Cologne - arrival day
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Old Market
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Welcome to Cologne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cologne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Cologne is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Old Market or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Cologne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SAVOY Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Reichard as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 3-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Cologne, Duisburg, and Essen
- Cologne
- Duisburg
- Essen
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Drive 186 km, 3 hours 5 min
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Duisburg Zoo
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Duisburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.
Duisburg Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.
After soaking in Duisburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Essen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Essen, it's time to take a break from the road.
Take the opportunity to see Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 visitors.
Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 travelers.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.
As you explore more of Cologne, 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.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 3 – Cologne - departure day
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Rheinpark
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Day 3 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Make Rheinpark one of your first sightseeing stops in Cologne. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,479 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
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