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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cologne and visit amazing attractions in Oberhausen and Duisburg destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Cologne. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the interesting Gasometer Oberhausen, a picture-perfect museum in Cologne. Next, go to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

After visiting Gasometer Oberhausen and Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Duisburg Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo offers a unique experience. Tiger & Turtle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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 dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Germany and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Cologne and beyond. With 2 nights left in Cologne, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Schildergasse is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Brühl. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering its own unique experiences.

Start by visiting Phantasialand, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable amusement park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and extraordinary church renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience.

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

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 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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cologne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Cologne, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Deutsches Eck. This captivating monument is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Eltz Castle. This awe-inspiring castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cologne. The bars in Cologne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of 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!

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Museum Folkwang. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Next, head over to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Shaft Xii. This symbolic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Nordstern Park, an intriguing park, and take a stroll around the area.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dortmund in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Dortmund, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Gaststätte Lütge-eck after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!