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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Rheinpark. This majestic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Cologne Zoological Garden, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s most extraordinary attractions, known for its historic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and scenic views! Start at Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, a beloved zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Aachen Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Elisenbrunnen. This monument is one of the city’s most intriguing 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 Marktplatz Am Rathaus.

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 an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Limani, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Duisburg, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a park, a marina, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Duisburg Zoo. This captivating zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Kaiserberg, a must-see park 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 Duisburg Inner Harbour. This frequently visited marina offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Rheinpark Duisburg, where you can take in gorgeous features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Tiger & Turtle and Tiger & Turtle. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 5 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 Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Sechs-seen-platte, a curiosity-inducing lake that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find German Inland Waterways Museum, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Museum Küppersmühle. This museum is one of the city’s most locally appreciated 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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. After exploring the park, head to the up-and-coming Hochofen 5. This historical landmark will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vater&sohn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Dortmund, Koblenz, and Keldung. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dortmund. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Westfalenpark is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a locally renowned castle, known for its historic 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 picture-perfect monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Eltz Castle adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bangkok Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Servus Colonia Alpina. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.