4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Aachen and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cologne, Aachen, 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 and 1 night in Aachen. 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. Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Cologne Zoological Garden, learn more about the unique Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Aachen, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Schildergasse
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 Schildergasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
- Aachen
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Drive 88 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Zoological Garden
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne, 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 Aachen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Lindt Chocolate Museum, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. This captivating zoo is a traveler-favorite.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aachen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Continue your lively evening at Die Wg, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Gin Library is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Domkeller ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Aachen
- Cologne
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Duisburg Zoo
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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On day 3 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 Duisburg and Essen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Aachen. Your adventure starts at Duisburg Zoo, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This notable park is known for its breathtaking 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 Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is also worth visiting.
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.
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.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 4
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Old Market
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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 Old Market. This popular public square is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Cologne’s popular marketplace, Hohe Straße. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
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’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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