5-Day Germany Road Trip from Düsseldorf to Cologne and surrounding area

Say hello to Düsseldorf! 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 Düsseldorf for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Düsseldorf 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 Hofgarten or 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 Düsseldorf. 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 in Düsseldorf. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Brewery Schumacher, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Brewery im Füchschen, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The ASH Düsseldorf. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Düsseldorf tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf, 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 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Düsseldorf, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,015 visitors.

Japanese Garden is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,176 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Nord Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,034 reviews.

Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an aquarium rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,358 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Schloss Benrath, perhaps the most famous park in Düsseldorf. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,705 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cologne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french, and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern, and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Brühl, and Cologne. You still have 1 night left in Cologne.

Drop by the renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Cologne Cathedral. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors, this catholic cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Set your GPS to Brühl and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brühl beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Phantasialand. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 visitors and gets around 1,750,000 visits every year.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

As you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Essen may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Essen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 visitors.

Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Duisburg Zoo is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 travelers.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese, and sushi cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french, and contemporary menu.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Düsseldorf's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Burgplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,559 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Konditorei Heinemann, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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!