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

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Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Düsseldorf, Cologne, Bonn, and Koblenz.

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 Düsseldorf and 3 nights in Cologne. 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 Düsseldorf, 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 Cologne Zoological Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Bonn, and Koblenz, 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
Königsallee
RheinpromenadeBurgplatzK20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-WestfalenHofgartenSchloss Benrath
Cologne Zoological GardenCologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumCologne Rodenkirchen BridgeSchildergasseBelgisches Viertel
Poppelsdorf PalaceBotanical Garden, BonnBonner MünsterBeethoven-DenkmalBeethoven-Haus BonnRheinaue
Ehrenbreitstein FortressMemorial of German UnityEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckSeilbahn Koblenz - TalstationKonrad-Adenauer-Ufer
Tritonenbrunnen in Düsseldorf

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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  • Königsallee
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Königsallee, 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 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brewery Schumacher, a highly-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're eager to try something different, consider Brewery im Füchschen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The ASH Düsseldorf. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Engelchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Cherie is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dusseldorf
  • Cologne
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Drive 46 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Rheinpromenade
  • Burgplatz
  • K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
  • Hofgarten
  • Schloss Benrath
  • More

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.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a boardwalk, a public square, an art gallery, a park, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Rheinpromenade. This worthwhile boardwalk is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Burgplatz, a must-see public square 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 Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This underrated art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hofgarten, where you can take in eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Schloss Benrath. This enchanting palace offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard, 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 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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
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Drive 29 km, 1 hour 10 min

  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
  • Schildergasse
  • Belgisches Viertel
  • More

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 your 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.

Start by visiting Cologne Zoological Garden, a prime spot to begin your journey. This gorgeous zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and top-rated church renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge also adds charm to your journey.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RheinZeit. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 74 km, 1 hour 42 min

  • Poppelsdorf Palace
  • Botanical Garden, Bonn
  • Bonner Münster
  • Beethoven-Denkmal
  • Beethoven-Haus Bonn
  • Rheinaue
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a palace, a botanical garden, a church, a monument, a museum, a park and much more! Start your day at Poppelsdorf Palace. This romantic palace is a locally appreciated place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Botanical Garden, Bonn. If romantic sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Minster Of St. Martin's. This symbolic church is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Beethoven-denkmal is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the photogenic Beethoven-haus Bonn. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated museum in Cologne.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Cologne
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Memorial of German Unity
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
  • Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz. 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a castle, a monument, a tramway, a boardwalk and much more! Start your day at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This culturally significant castle is a notable place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Memorial Of German Unity. If culturally significant sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Deutsches Eck. This culturally significant monument is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the tramway, don’t forget to check out the romantic Rheinanlagen Koblenz. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular boardwalk in Cologne.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Studio 1. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Engel Rockbar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dusseldorf - Departure day
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  • Tritonenbrunnen in Düsseldorf
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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 Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Düsseldorf’s popular marketplace, Königsallee. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.

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

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!

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