7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Frankfurt
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Cologne, and 3 nights in Frankfurt. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Düsseldorf, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Cologne Cathedral and Römerberg are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Iron Footbridge, learn more about the unique Palmengarten, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Main Bridge.
As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Baden-Baden, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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- Rheinpromenade
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Say hello to Düsseldorf! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Düsseldorf is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Rheinpromenade, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Düsseldorf. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brewery Schumacher, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Brewery im Füchschen, 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 The ASH Düsseldorf. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Engelchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Cherie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Auberge Rock Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dusseldorf
- Cologne
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Drive 69 km, 1 hour 7 min
- K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Museum Ludwig
- Cologne Cathedral
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf and Cologne, 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This photogenic art gallery will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Museum Ludwig. After exploring the museum, head to Cologne Cathedral. This famous church is a highlight in Düsseldorf.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Cologne
- Frankfurt
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Drive 195 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Palmengarten Frankfurt
- Städel Museum
- Iron Footbridge
- Goethe House
- Römerberg
- Frankfurt Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palmengarten is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene botanical garden before continuing your journey. Städel Museum is your next stop. This increasingly popular art museum is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Iron Footbridge. This grand monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Goethe House and Römerberg. If time allows, end your day with Frankfurt Cathedral, a historic church that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Frankfurt's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Im Herzen Afrikas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Frankfurt tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Gute Stute is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Gleis 25. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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.
Day 4
- Frankfurt
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Drive 559 km, 6 hours 22 min
- Trinkhalle
- Martin's Gate
- Bertoldsbrunnen
- Augustiner Museum
- Freiburg Minster
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 2 nights left in Frankfurt, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Trinkhalle, an underrated museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Martin's Gate, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Bertoldsbrunnen. This public square is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Augustiner Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the notable Freiburger Münsterbauverein. This church will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Frankfurt and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Apfelwein Dax, 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 Ariston Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Barkello Café Bar Lounge. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Jambo Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 5
- Frankfurt
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Drive 363 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Gallows Gate
- Blade Gate
- Burggarten
- German Christmas Museum
- Medieval Crime Museum
- Plönlein
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Frankfurt for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Next, go to Blade Gate.
After visiting Gallows Gate and Blade Gate, take time to explore Frankfurt's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Castle Garden. This eye-catching park offers a unique experience. German Christmas Museum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Medieval Crime Museum, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Frankfurt.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Frankfurt.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Frankfurt's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rote Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Frankfurt. Belfordfrankfurt is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 6
- Frankfurt
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 461 km, 5 hours 51 min
- Marienberg Fortress
- Old Main Bridge
- Würzburg Residence
- Alte Brücke
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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 Würzburg and Frankfurt. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Frankfurt. Your adventure starts at Marienberg Fortress, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Old Main Bridge. This notable historical landmark is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Frankfurt's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Würzburg Residence. This romantic palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Alte Brücke is also worth visiting.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf, 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 dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Studio 1, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sakura Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Engel Rockbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 7
- Dusseldorf - Departure day
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- Königsallee
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Königsallee, an awe-inspiring street before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Düsseldorf’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Carlsplatz Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
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