7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf and Dortmund and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a park, a zoo, a church, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Rheinpark. This up-and-coming park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Cologne Zoological Garden, a must-see zoo 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 Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, where you can take in visually striking features. 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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Wake up to day 3 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!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a zoo, a church, a monument, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This frequently visited zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Aachen Cathedral, which may be one of the most picture-perfect 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 Elisenbrunnen, a frequently visited monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Marktplatz Am Rathaus.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the evening going at Suderman, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Duisburg. 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 zoo, a park, a marina, an art installation and much more! Duisburg Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Kaiserberg, a frequently visited park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Duisburg Inner Harbour, a history-steeped marina, 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 increasingly popular Rheinpark Duisburg. If you’re looking for more, Tiger & Turtle is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Flair, a local favorite known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning french and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Engelchen, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Sechs-seen-platte, an underrated lake in the city. Then, head to German Inland Waterways Museum and soak in the ambiance of this standout museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Küppersmühle. This is one of the city’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Not far away, you'll also find Hochofen 5. This historical landmark is a historic highlight in Düsseldorf.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dortmund by securing a table at The Stage. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Grammons Restaurant, famous for its scrumptious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vater&sohn after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Loka Lounge Dortmund for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Central Bar & More Dortmund is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 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 Dortmund, Koblenz, and Keldung. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned park, Westfalenpark. Afterward, continue to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This captivating monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Eltz Castle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe Riese 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 Bangkok Thai 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 Servus Colonia Alpina. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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