5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen traveling west to Dortmund and Cologne

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Photo of ancient Bremen market square in the centre of the Hanseatic City of Bremen with view on famous Church of Our Lady.
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Explore the best of Germany on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bremen, Dortmund, Essen, Brühl, Königswinter, Cologne, and Duisburg.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Bremen, 1 night in Dortmund, and 1 night 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Bremen, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bremen, Dortmund, Essen, Brühl, Königswinter, Cologne, and Duisburg, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Bremen - Arrival day
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  • Schnoor
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Say hello to Bremen! 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 Bremen for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bremen 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 Schnoor. 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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bremen. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Bremen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel Robben, a popular restaurant in Bremen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bremen at Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Market Hall Eight Bremen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bremen tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rosso Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Red Rock offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Sammy`s Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bremen
  • Dortmund
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 19 min

  • Bremen
  • Bremen Roland
  • Town Musicians of Bremen
  • Universum Science Center
  • Rhododendron-Park Bremen
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bremen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bremen is an ideal stop early in the day. This worthwhile public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bremen Roland, which may be one of the most remarkable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bremen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Town Musicians Of Bremen, an interesting literary work in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Universum Science Center and Rhododendron-park Bremen.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vater&sohn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Loka Lounge Dortmund provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Dortmund
  • Essen
  • Eckdorf
  • Brühl
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 227 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Phantasialand
  • Brühl Castle
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Essen, Brühl, and Königswinter. 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 Dortmund, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Essen. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable museum known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Brühl, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Brühl may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Brühl is Phantasialand, an astonishing amusement park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Set your GPS to Brühl and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brühl beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Brühl Castle and explore the majestic features.

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.

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.

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 modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Grid Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Toddy Tapper offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Duisburg
  • Bremen
  • More

Drive 346 km, 4 hours 11 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Cologne and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bremen, where will spend 1 night.

Make time for Cologne Cathedral, a top-rated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cologne Zoological Garden, enchanting visitors with its gorgeous appeal.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a well-known park known for its breathtaking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bremen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Bremen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bremen.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Jürgenshof offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bremen.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Wohnzimmer Bremen, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. König Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cottons Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Bremen and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bremen - Departure day
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  • Shepherd with pigs
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Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bremen 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 Shepherd With Pigs. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Bremen’s popular marketplace, Schnoor Quarter. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

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

Dine in style at Paulaner's a der Schlachte, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bolero Schlachte boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Bremen. 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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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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