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

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Cochem. 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. Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Deutsches Eck, learn more about the unique Porta Nigra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Reichsburg Cochem.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
RheinboulevardCologne Chocolate MuseumCologne CathedralBeethoven-Haus BonnBeethoven-Denkmal
Ehrenbreitstein FortressSeilbahn Koblenz - TalstationEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckCochem CastleHistorische Senfmühle Dehren GmbHPinnerkreuz
Liebfrauenkirche, TrierPorta NigraTrier AmphitheaterMonschau
Rombergpark Botanical Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
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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 Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dortmund. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Zum Alten Markt, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ringhotel Drees. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vater&sohn stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
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Drive 164 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Rheinboulevard
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Beethoven-Haus Bonn
  • Beethoven-Denkmal
  • More

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 2 vibrant destinations - Cologne and Bonn. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Rheinboulevard. This up-and-coming boardwalk is an instagrammable place to see in Dortmund. Continue your discovery at Lindt Chocolate Museum, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dortmund, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church offers a stunning encounter with Dortmund. Next, make your way to Beethoven-haus Bonn to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Beethoven-denkmal, an increasingly popular monument that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dortmund.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at SAVOY Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Reichard. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Cochem
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Drive 174 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Cochem Castle
  • Historische Senfmühle Dehren GmbH
  • Pinnerkreuz
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz and Cochem. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cochem, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This picture-perfect castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation, a must-visit tramway in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Deutsches Eck, an interesting monument. For a change of scene, check out Reichsburg Cochem, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Pinnerkreuz, yet another up-and-coming attraction in Cologne.

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

As you explore more of Cochem, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a top-rated dining spot in Cochem.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kelsey's Eck after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cochem
  • Dortmund
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Drive 401 km, 5 hours 32 min

  • Liebfrauenkirche, Trier
  • Porta Nigra
  • Trier Amphitheater
  • Monschau
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Trier and Monschau, 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.

Cochem is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Liebfrauenkirche, a beloved church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Porta Nigra, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal. Continue your exploration at Trier Amphitheater. This archeological site is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cochem at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Monschau.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dortmund. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strobels Dortmund, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lord. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gaststätte Lütge-eck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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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 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 Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This frequently visited botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

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

Savor the flavors at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALEX Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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