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

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

Make time for Schloss Nordkirchen, an increasingly popular castle that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Tetrahedron In Bottrop, enchanting visitors with its detailed appeal. Continue your exploration at Movie Park. This amusement park is one of the village’s most impressive spots.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Brühl and Cologne. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Brühl. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Brühl-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Phantasialand is an ideal stop early in the day. This spectacular amusement park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cologne Cathedral, which may be one of the most breathtaking 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum in the village.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

Say good night to Cologne and look forward to another great day 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 Keldung, Koblenz, and Glees to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Make time for Eltz Castle, a locally renowned castle that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Deutsches Eck. This monument is one of the village’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Maria Laach Abbey.

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 lovely dining experience at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Suderman, where the evening is just getting started.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Duisburg and Essen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Duisburg Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and learn what makes this stunning park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. After exploring the laser tag arena, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This well-known museum is a highlight in Cologne.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Coeur D'Artichaut is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Muenster. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Spitzner. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Eulen & Lerchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The James, offering a different kind of charm.

Head back to your accommodation in Muenster and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.