7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Frankfurt

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 the Benrath palace in Dusseldorf, Germany
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Explore the best of Germany on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Baden-Baden, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Rheinpromenade
K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-WestfalenCologne Rodenkirchen BridgeMuseum LudwigCologne Cathedral
Palmengarten FrankfurtStädel MuseumIron FootbridgeGoethe HouseRömerbergFrankfurt Cathedral
TrinkhalleMartin's GateBertoldsbrunnenAugustiner MuseumFreiburg Minster
Gallows GateBlade GateBurggartenGerman Christmas MuseumMedieval Crime MuseumPlönlein
Marienberg FortressOld Main BridgeWürzburg ResidenceAlte Brücke
Königsallee

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Day 1

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Düsseldorf. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brewery Schumacher, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Brewery im Füchschen, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The ASH Düsseldorf, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Engelchen stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Auberge Rock Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Düsseldorf and Cologne. 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.

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This eye-catching art gallery is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Museum Ludwig, a locally appreciated museum. For a change of scene, check out Cologne Cathedral, known for its stunning features.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Reichard. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.

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Day 3

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
  • More

On day 3 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 Frankfurt. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Palmengarten. This awe-inspiring botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Iron Footbridge. After exploring the monument, head to Goethe House. This increasingly popular museum is a highlight in Cologne. As your day continues, stop by Römerberg, known for its visually striking features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the beloved Frankfurt Cathedral. Enjoy exploring this incredible church at your own pace.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Frankfurt. 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 Berliner Keller Frankfurt, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Im Herzen Afrikas, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gute Stute offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gleis 25 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Frankfurt
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Drive 559 km, 6 hours 22 min

  • Trinkhalle
  • Martin's Gate
  • Bertoldsbrunnen
  • Augustiner Museum
  • Freiburg Minster
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Frankfurt, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Frankfurt for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s agenda in Frankfurt includes a museum, a monument, a public square, a church and much more! Trinkhalle is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Martin's Gate, a locally appreciated monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Bertoldsbrunnen, a visually striking public square, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Frankfurt. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the up-and-coming Augustiner Museum. If you’re looking for more, Freiburger Münsterbauverein is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Apfelwein Dax offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ariston Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Barkello Café Bar Lounge offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Jambo Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Cosy Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 5

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
  • More

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Frankfurt, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Frankfurt today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Gallows Gate.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Castle Garden. After exploring the park, head to German Christmas Museum. This beloved museum is a highlight in Frankfurt. As your day continues, stop by Medieval Crime Museum, known for its heritage-rich features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). Enjoy exploring this incredible public square at your own pace.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chicago Meatpackers beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zum Gemalten Haus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Rote Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Belfordfrankfurt ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 6

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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Würzburg and Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Marienberg Fortress, a locally renowned castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Main Bridge, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Würzburg Residence. This palace is one of the city’s most often recommended 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 Alte Brücke.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coffee Fellows is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Studio 1, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 7

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, begin at Königsallee. This up-and-coming street is a popular place to see in the city.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.

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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