6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne and Koblenz

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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 remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, Trier, and Monschau.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Cologne, and 2 nights in Koblenz. 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 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 Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, 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, accommodations, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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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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Welcome to Dortmund, 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 discovering what to see in Dortmund before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dortmund. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 lovely dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dortmund at Zum Alten Markt, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ringhotel Drees. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dortmund tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vater&sohn offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Central Bar & More Dortmund is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
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Drive 103 km, 2 hours 10 min

  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Rheinboulevard
  • Museum Ludwig
  • Cologne Cathedral
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Experience Lindt Chocolate Museum, a captivating museum in the city. Then, head to Rheinboulevard and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting boardwalk.

There are many interesting places to see in Dortmund, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Ludwig. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the extraordinary Cologne Cathedral.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at SAVOY Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Reichard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Koblenz
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Beethoven-Haus Bonn
  • Rheinaue
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Memorial of German Unity
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Bonn and Koblenz. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz, where will spend 2 nights.

One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Beethoven-haus Bonn. This photogenic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinaue and learn what makes this mesmerizing park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. After exploring the castle, head to Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation. This up-and-coming tramway is a highlight in Cologne. As your day continues, stop by Deutsches Eck, known for its culturally significant features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the beloved Memorial Of German Unity. Enjoy exploring this incredible monument at your own pace.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Koblenz. Koblenz offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Koblenz 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 Koblenz.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Konditorei Werrmann, a popular restaurant in Koblenz. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Koblenz at Altes Brauhaus, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Koblenz tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Spökes, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dubai Shisha Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Excalibur - The Rock Cafe, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Koblenz
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Drive 167 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Marksburg
  • Stolzenfels Castle
  • Eibingen Abbey
  • Die Drosselgasse
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Koblenz, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Enjoy all that Marksburg has to offer. This is an up-and-coming castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Stolzenfels Castle, an often recommended castle in Koblenz.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Eibingen Abbey. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Die Drosselgasse, another of the town’s frequently visited attractions.

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

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 Koblenz, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Kaffeewirtschaft GmbH, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L´Osteria Koblenz is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Wacht am Rhein. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Koblenz tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Koblenz
  • Dortmund
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Drive 431 km, 5 hours 37 min

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Trier and Monschau are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Liebfrauenkirche makes a great addition to your morning plans. This beloved church is a historic place to see in Koblenz. Continue your discovery at Petrusbrunnen, an instagrammable monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Koblenz, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Porta Nigra. This locally renowned monument offers a historic encounter with Koblenz. Next, make your way to Monschau to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Koblenz.

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

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.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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Day 6 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, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a detailed botanical garden before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Dortmund’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. 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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALEX Dortmund, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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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.
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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