Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Cologne, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cologne will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Germany.

Catch Gasometer Oberhausen before the crowds roll in. This gorgeous museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Duisburg Zoo, a popular zoo. For a change of scene, check out Tiger & Turtle, known for its picture-perfect features.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Germany, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cologne and visit amazing attractions in Brühl and Cologne, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Cologne, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

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.

Awaiting your discovery is the astonishing Phantasialand, an eye-catching amusement park in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Limani, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Suderman, a top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cologne as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

Your relaxed road trip in Germany continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Germany better by exploring the top attractions of Cologne and beyond. With 1 night left in Cologne, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Start your day at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This historic castle is a locally renowned place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Deutsches Eck. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Eltz Castle. This romantic castle is a favorite among visitors.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Riese Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bangkok Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Servus Colonia Alpina, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

To truly experience Cologne, make sure to drop by Museum Folkwang. This worthwhile museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, one of the most notable places to see in Cologne. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Shaft Xii. Wander around and soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Nordstern Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Germany as you make your way to Dortmund. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dortmund. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.