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

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Düsseldorf, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Düsseldorf is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an aquarium, a park, a botanical garden, a boardwalk, a palace and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Nord Park, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Japanese Garden, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. When you're finished at the boardwalk, Schloss Benrath awaits your visit. This palace is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Düsseldorf.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese and sushi cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french and contemporary menu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Düsseldorf and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Studio 1 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sakura Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Engel Rockbar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Duisburg and drive in the direction of the city of Essen for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known zoo, Duisburg Zoo. Afterward, continue to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This underrated laser tag arena is an essential stop. Following that, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cologne in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cologne.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Grid Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Toddy Tapper offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a public square, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Rheinpark. This is an intriguing park you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Market, a locally renowned public square in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rhine Garden Sculpture. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museum Ludwig, another of the city’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Cologne Cathedral, a stunning place of interest in the city.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cologne and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Soul Bar Cologne, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

Schildergasse is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Cologne. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering its own unique experiences.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum is an eye-catching place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Cologne Zoological Garden, a breathtaking zoo with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Limani, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cologne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Suderman, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cologne as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Botanical Garden, Bonn is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a well-known museum, known for its photogenic 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 Rheinaue. This mesmerizing park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Schloss Drachenburg and Phantasialand. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

In the city of Düsseldorf, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

Exploring the food culture in Düsseldorf offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Düsseldorf. The bars in Düsseldorf make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.