6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Dortmund are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Experience German Football Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in the city.

There are many interesting places to see in Dortmund, and when you are ready for more, go to Dortmund Zoo. This is one of the city’s most well-known breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the often recommended Casino Hohensyburg.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Brühl and Cologne. With 2 nights to stay in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Schildergasse is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Brühl, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the village. Be sure to also visit Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Brühl.

Cologne Cathedral is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min.

Phantasialand is an astonishing amusement park we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Cologne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Koblenz, Alken, and Keldung to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Koblenz. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Koblenz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Koblenz is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, an interesting castle that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Deutsches Eck, a culturally significant monument that stands out in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Alken. This drive usually takes around 30 min.

Thurant Castle is an increasingly popular castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Eltz Castle, a popular castle in Keldung. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Duisburg and Essen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Duisburg.

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 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Duisburg Zoo, a popular zoo that everyone visiting Duisburg should see. Next, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This gorgeous park is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Essen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Essen beckons with new experiences!

Next, continue your sightseeing at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a captivating museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Gaststätte Lütge-eck is an excellent place to start.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!