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

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Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
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Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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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.

Find your way to your hotel in Dortmund. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Alten Markt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ringhotel Drees is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dortmund.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vater&sohn, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Loka Lounge Dortmund is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund 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 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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Bonn, 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dortmund. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a boardwalk, a museum, a church, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Rheinboulevard. This is a beloved boardwalk you should not miss. Another must-see is Lindt Chocolate Museum, a well-known museum in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cologne Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Beethoven-haus Bonn, another of the city’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Beethoven-denkmal, a respected place of interest in the city.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a castle, a tramway, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This captivating castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Deutsches Eck. Its respected features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Reichsburg Cochem. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this castle. Next up is Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh, a highly recommended museum. For a change of pace, head to Pinnerkreuz. As one of the most frequently visited attractions in Cologne, this monument is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cochem. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a popular restaurant in Cochem. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

Keep the evening going at Kelsey's Eck, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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

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

Today's adventure in Cochem promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Liebfrauenkirche. This breathtaking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Porta Nigra, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Trier Amphitheater, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Monschau. This romantic historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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 wonderful meal at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Lord. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gaststätte Lütge-eck. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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.

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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 intriguing botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Dortmund’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Dortmund Indoor Market Hall. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Brasserie Lotte, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ALEX Dortmund? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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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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