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 agenda in Cologne includes a park, a zoo, a church, a museum and much more! Rheinpark is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Cologne Zoological Garden, a captivating zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, a stunning church, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a zoo, a church, a monument, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This is a worthwhile zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Aachen Cathedral, a locally renowned church in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Elisenbrunnen. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Marktplatz Am Rathaus, another of the city’s beloved attractions.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Suderman, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 4 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 Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo is a picture-perfect place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Kaiserberg, a majestic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Duisburg Inner Harbour. This curiosity-inducing marina offers a romantic encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Rheinpark Duisburg to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Tiger & Turtle, a beloved art installation that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day 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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Engelchen, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Cherie offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Auberge Rock Pub. 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!

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.

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Sechs-seen-platte, a worthwhile 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 increasingly popular 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 locally appreciated Hochofen 5.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Vater&sohn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Central Bar & More Dortmund ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, Koblenz, and Keldung, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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 interesting places to visit in Dortmund. 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 is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Eltz Castle. Visit these for an interesting touch 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.

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 Cafe Riese Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bangkok Thai Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Servus Colonia Alpina. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

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