4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Essen
Description
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Description
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 Dortmund, Essen, Brühl, and Cologne.
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 Dortmund 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 Dortmund, 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. Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Cologne Zoological Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Westfalenpark.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Essen, Brühl, and Cologne, 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
- Dortmund - Arrival day
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- Burg Hörde
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dortmund 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.
Dortmund 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 Hörde, 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 Dortmund. 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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Meeting, die Café-Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zum Alten Markt? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ringhotel Drees as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dortmund.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vater&sohn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dortmund
- Essen
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 25 min
- German Football Museum
- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
- Dortmund Zoo
- LWL Industrial Museum Zollern
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On day 2 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 Dortmund. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.
Just a short distance away is Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a detailed botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Dortmund Zoo, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern.
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 explore more of Essen, 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 an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Essen is Kettner's Kamota, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious austrian and french contemporary menu.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Südrock Rock Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gentlem offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 3
- Essen
- Dortmund
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Drive 223 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Phantasialand
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Zoological Garden
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl and 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including an amusement park, a museum, a church, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Lindt Chocolate Museum, a must-see museum in the village.
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 Cologne Cathedral. This widely recognized church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, where you can take in stunning features.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dortmund's best restaurants.
Begin your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Dortmund - Departure day
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- Westfalenpark
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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 Dortmund 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 Westfalenpark. This locally renowned park is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Dortmund’s popular marketplace, Thier-Galerie Dortmund. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ALEX Dortmund is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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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