4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Essen
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 4-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cologne and Essen.
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 Essen. 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 Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Market.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne 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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- 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 1 night 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 just 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Reichard. 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 The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
- Essen
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Drive 78 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Cathedral
- Media Park Köln mbH
- Cologne Zoological Garden
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a church, a cultural center, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This interesting museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Cologne Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Media Park Köln Mbh. This increasingly popular cultural center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, where you can take in breathtaking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen 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 Essen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Kettner's Kamota, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Essen.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Südrock Rock Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gentlem is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Essen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Essen
- Cologne
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Drive 94 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Shaft XII
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
- LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
- Museum Folkwang
- Hügel Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Essen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a laser tag arena, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Shaft Xii and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a historic museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Museum Folkwang. When you're finished at the museum, Hügel Park awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Soul Bar Cologne, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 4
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Rheinpark
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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 Rheinpark. This worthwhile park is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne's best shopping area, Schildergasse. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
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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