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 agenda in Düsseldorf includes an aquarium, a park, a botanical garden, a boardwalk, a palace and much more! Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is must-visit aquarium and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Nord Park, a curiosity-inducing park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Japanese Garden, an idyllic 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 Düsseldorf. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the up-and-coming Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. If you’re looking for more, Schloss Benrath is also a notable attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Düsseldorf as you explore Schadowstraße. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Schadowstraße offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable 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.

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Düsseldorf. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Carolus Thermen is the perfect place to start. This spa is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Düsseldorf. Next, head to Aachen Cathedral, a captivating church, known for its grand features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Phantasialand. This visually striking amusement park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Schloss Drachenburg. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic 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 instagrammable 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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Soul Bar Cologne is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. 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. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped park before continuing your journey. Movie Park is your next stop. This impressive amusement park 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 Schloss Nordkirchen. This history-steeped castle is a sight to behold.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. 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 Dortmund's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vater&sohn stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Dortmund and Essen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at the increasingly popular German Football Museum, a history-steeped museum in Dortmund. Next, go to Westfalenpark.

After visiting German Football Museum and Westfalenpark, have a stroll along Dortmund's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This serene botanical garden offers a unique experience. Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, 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 DORMERO Hotel 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 Konditorei Heinemann. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!