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

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Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Muenster, Nordkirchen, Bottrop, Feldhausen, Cologne, Brühl, Keldung, Koblenz, Duisburg, and Essen. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Muenster 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 Muenster, 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. Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Movie Park, learn more about the unique Lindt Chocolate Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Deutsches Eck.

As you hit the open road and drive through Muenster, Nordkirchen, Bottrop, Feldhausen, Cologne, Brühl, Keldung, Koblenz, Duisburg, and Essen, 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
Schlossplatz
Schloss NordkirchenTetrahedron in BottropMovie Park Germany
PhantasialandCologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumSchildergasseBelgisches Viertel
Eltz CastleEhrenbreitstein FortressEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckMaria Laach Abbey
Duisburg ZooLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordLaserZone LaserTag Essen West - BorbeckUNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Münster - Arrival day
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  • Schlossplatz
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Welcome to Muenster, 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 immersing yourself in Muenster's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Muenster 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 Schlossplatz, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Muenster. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Cuba - Club und Bar Münster, a top-rated dining destination in Muenster. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Schloßtheater Münster, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Königsstraße. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Muenster this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Atelier offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Muenster. Spooky's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Münster
  • Cologne
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Drive 222 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Schloss Nordkirchen
  • Tetrahedron in Bottrop
  • Movie Park Germany
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nordkirchen, Bottrop, and Feldhausen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Immerse yourself in Muenster’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Schloss Nordkirchen. This instagrammable castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the awe-inspiring features of Tetrahedron In Bottrop, a must-visit art installation in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Movie Park, a famous amusement park.

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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Phantasialand
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Schildergasse
  • Belgisches Viertel
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

A top thing to do today is to explore Schildergasse, a must-see street in Brühl. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park is a visually striking place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Cologne Cathedral, a picture-perfect church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum offers a visually striking encounter with Cologne.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
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Drive 272 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Eltz Castle
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Maria Laach Abbey
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Keldung, Koblenz, and Glees. You still have 1 night left in Cologne.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await. Eltz Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most notable places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a popular castle, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Deutsches Eck. This breathtaking monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Maria Laach Abbey adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Cologne
  • Münster
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Drive 191 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Duisburg and Essen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Duisburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and learn what makes this breathtaking park unique.

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

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muenster, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Münster - Departure day
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  • Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
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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 Muenster 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, begin at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This worthwhile botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Muenster’s popular marketplace, Prinzipalmarkt. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Road Stop Münster, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Muenster. 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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