6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling east to Cologne

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Düsseldorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Rheinpromenade, an underrated boardwalk that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Burgplatz, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This art gallery is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Düsseldorf at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Hofgarten. After exploring the park, head to the notable Schloss Benrath.

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.

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

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

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Schildergasse in Cologne is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Belgisches Viertel as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.

Start your adventure at Cologne Zoological Garden. This popular zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Cologne Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a palace, a botanical garden, a church, a monument, a museum, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Poppelsdorf Palace. This frequently visited palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Botanical Garden, Bonn, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Minster Of St. Martin's, an increasingly popular church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Beethoven-denkmal and Beethoven-haus Bonn. End your day with a visit to Rheinaue, a popular park that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Limani, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Koblenz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes a castle, a monument, a tramway, a boardwalk and much more! Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Memorial Of German Unity, a beloved monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Deutsches Eck, an awe-inspiring monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cologne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation. If you’re looking for more, Rheinanlagen Koblenz is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Dine in style at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Coffee Fellows. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Studio 1, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sakura Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Engel Rockbar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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