7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Dortmund and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today's adventure in Düsseldorf promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This eye-catching aquarium is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Nord Park, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Japanese Garden, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This romantic boardwalk is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Schloss Benrath, a locally renowned palace, and take a stroll around the area.

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 Düsseldorf's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Le Flair is known as a top local spot for its delicious french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sakura Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Engel Rockbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aachen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 1 min.

Begin your journey at Carolus Thermen and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Aachen Cathedral, another highlight in the city.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aachen behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Phantasialand, a famous amusement park known for its photogenic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Königswinter, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brühl to Königswinter may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Königswinter, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Schloss Drachenburg and explore the romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Old Market, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral. This famous church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cologne Zoological Garden, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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.

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

On day 5 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, Feldhausen, and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is a well-known park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Duisburg and set your GPS to Feldhausen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 22 min. Upon reaching Feldhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Movie Park is a famous amusement park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Feldhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 56 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Schloss Nordkirchen, an increasingly popular castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vater&sohn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Loka Lounge Dortmund provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund 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!

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dortmund allows for both. Start by heading to German Football Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Westfalenpark, a remarkable park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an increasingly popular botanical garden.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Essen. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable museum in Essen. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This increasingly popular laser tag arena is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

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

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 could also check for a table at Konditorei Heinemann. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

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