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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Düsseldorf, including an aquarium, a park, a botanical garden, a boardwalk, a palace and much more! Start your day at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This photogenic aquarium is an interesting place to see in Düsseldorf. Then, wander over to Nord Park. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Japanese Garden. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Düsseldorf offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the boardwalk, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Schloss Benrath. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular palace in Düsseldorf.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Studio 1. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sakura Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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 Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a spa, a church, an amusement park, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Carolus Thermen. This intriguing spa is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Aachen Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Phantasialand. This astonishing amusement park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Schloss Drachenburg, where you can take in respected 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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-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, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Grid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toddy Tapper. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Old Market, a must-visit public square 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 Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church. For a change of scene, check out Cologne Zoological Garden, known for its stunning features.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Duisburg, Feldhausen, and Nordkirchen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable park, Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Afterward, continue to Movie Park, an amusement park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Schloss Nordkirchen. This locally appreciated castle is an essential stop.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vater&sohn, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Loka Lounge Dortmund is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Today’s agenda in Dortmund includes a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a laser tag arena and much more! German Football Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Westfalenpark, a well-known park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dortmund. If you’re looking for more, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, an up-and-coming gem to see in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Im Goldenen Kessel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konditorei Heinemann. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!