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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Düsseldorf, and meet locals along the way!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences in Düsseldorf. Begin your sightseeing with Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This popular aquarium is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Nord Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Düsseldorf, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Japanese Garden. This underrated botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Schloss Benrath is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Düsseldorf, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Pink Pepper delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Yoshi by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese and sushi specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Le Flair, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Studio 1, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sakura Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Engel Rockbar, another top-rated place in the area.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Duisburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and learn what makes this picture-perfect park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. After exploring the laser tag arena, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This captivating museum is a highlight in Düsseldorf.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cologne. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a public square, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Rheinpark and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Old Market, a romantic public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Rhine Garden Sculpture, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Museum Ludwig. When you're finished at the museum, Cologne Cathedral awaits your visit. This church is a breathtaking 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.

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.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Cologne can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in 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!

A visit to Schildergasse in Cologne is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Belgisches Viertel as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This interesting museum is an instagrammable place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Cologne Zoological Garden, an awe-inspiring 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.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cologne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cologne that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Cologne to find the best options for you!

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Suderman, a prime location for a drink.

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!

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Bonn and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Königswinter and the village of Brühl. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a botanical garden, a museum, a park, a castle, an amusement park and much more! Start your day at Botanical Garden, Bonn. This eye-catching botanical garden is an increasingly popular place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rheinaue. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Schloss Drachenburg is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Phantasialand. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this spectacular amusement park.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Düsseldorf in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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