5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt traveling north to Düsseldorf

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Description

Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Essen, Cologne, and Brühl. 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 Frankfurt and 2 nights in Düsseldorf. 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 Frankfurt, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Römerberg.

As you hit the open road and drive through Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Essen, Cologne, and Brühl, 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
Zeil
RömerbergIron FootbridgeZoo FrankfurtPalmengarten Frankfurt
Landschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooLaserZone LaserTag Essen West - BorbeckUNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumPhantasialand
Alte Oper

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Frankfurt - Arrival day
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  • Zeil
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Welcome to Frankfurt, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Frankfurt's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Frankfurt 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 Zeil, a must-see street, and 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 Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated dining spot in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood for something new, try Im Herzen Afrikas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Frankfurt.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gute Stute, known for its inviting atmosphere. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Frankfurt
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 232 km, 2 hours 57 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Frankfurt, including a public square, a monument, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Römerberg. This notable public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Iron Footbridge located in Frankfurt for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zoo Frankfurt. Its gorgeous features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Palmengarten. This botanical garden has a mesmerizing appeal.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Engelchen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Cherie, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Auberge Rock Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Düsseldorf, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Düsseldorf. Begin your sightseeing with Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Duisburg Zoo, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Düsseldorf, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This worthwhile laser tag arena is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar Studio 1, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sakura Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Engel Rockbar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dusseldorf
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Phantasialand
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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 - Cologne and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Lindt Chocolate Museum, a picture-perfect museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand, a famous amusement park.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Frankfurt, Lafleur shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Erno's Bistro is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Barkello Café Bar Lounge offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Jambo Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Cosy Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Frankfurt - Departure day
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  • Alte Oper
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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 Frankfurt 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, we recommend visiting Alte Oper, an awe-inspiring opera house before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Frankfurt’s shopping center, the lively Skyline Plaza. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Chicago Meatpackers is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. 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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