5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Essen and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Belgisches Viertel is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Enjoy all that Cologne Zoological Garden has to offer. This is a well-known zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Cologne Cathedral, a spectacular church in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Cologne 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 Cologne.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Solingen, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Solingen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 37 min. Upon reaching Solingen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Oberhausen may take around 58 min. Upon your arrival in Oberhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Gasometer Oberhausen. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Oberhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 17 min.

Savor the day by heading to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Duisburg Zoo, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, 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 Essen's best restaurants.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Südrock Rock Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gentlem, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Essen, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, and Brühl are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Shaft Xii is an essential stop in Essen. This beloved museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a stunning museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Schloss Drachenburg, an interesting castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heisterbacherrott. This car ride takes around 7 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Siebengebirge, an intriguing mountain range in Heisterbacherrott. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.