4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf

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Photo of Cologne sunset city skyline with Cologne Cathedral and Rhine River, Cologne, Germany.
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Explore the best of Germany on a remarkable 4-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cologne, Aachen, Düsseldorf, Nideggen, and Bonn.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Cologne and 1 night in Düsseldorf. 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 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. Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Aachen, Düsseldorf, Nideggen, and Bonn, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
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  • Cologne Cathedral
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Say hello to Cologne! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Cologne Cathedral. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cologne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Grid Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Cologne
  • Aachen
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Carolus Thermen
  • Aachen Cathedral
  • Elisenbrunnen
  • Königsallee
  • Rheinpromenade
  • Burgplatz
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Aachen and Düsseldorf. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aachen may take around 1 hour. Upon your arrival in Aachen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Carolus Thermen, an up-and-coming spa in Aachen. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Aachen Cathedral. This notable church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Elisenbrunnen is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant monument in the region.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Düsseldorf may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Düsseldorf, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Königsallee is a curiosity-inducing street we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rheinpromenade, a romantic boardwalk that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Burgplatz, a romantic public square.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Brewery im Füchschen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The ASH Düsseldorf. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Engelchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cherie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Dusseldorf
  • Nideggen
  • Bonn
  • Cologne
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Drive 186 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • Nideggen Castle
  • Beethoven-Haus Bonn
  • Beethoven-Denkmal
  • Poppelsdorf Palace
  • House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Nideggen and Bonn. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nideggen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nideggen Castle. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nideggen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bonn. This drive usually takes around 56 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bonn is Beethoven-haus Bonn, an intriguing museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Beethoven-denkmal, a noteworthy monument that stands out in the village.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Poppelsdorf Palace, an intriguing palace that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and relax 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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Cologne - Departure day
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  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
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Day 4 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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