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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Düsseldorf. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf!

To truly experience Düsseldorf, make sure to drop by Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This locally renowned aquarium is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Nord Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Japanese Garden, one of the most often recommended places to see in Düsseldorf. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this boardwalk offers. Then, head to Schloss Benrath, a top-rated palace that adds another dimension to your day.

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 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Le Flair, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sakura Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Engel Rockbar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Duisburg and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Essen and Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 3 nights.

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Duisburg Zoo, an interesting zoo in Duisburg. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This locally renowned park is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Duisburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Essen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Essen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, an often recommended laser tag arena that everyone visiting Essen should see. Next, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This UNESCO world heritage-designated museum is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

In Cologne, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Germany.

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 Cologne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne 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. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Enjoy all that Rheinpark has to offer. This is an underrated park you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Market, a captivating 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 beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Cologne Cathedral, a historic place of interest in the city.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. 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.

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 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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cologne!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Set aside time today to explore Schildergasse, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

Lindt Chocolate Museum leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable zoo, known for its gorgeous features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Düsseldorf. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Düsseldorf 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!

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.

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.

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 Cologne. The bars in Cologne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 6 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Germany lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Bonn. By evening, drive toward the Düsseldorf, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Set your GPS to Bonn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bonn beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Botanical Garden, Bonn. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Rheinaue. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Schloss Drachenburg is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Königswinter, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brühl. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Phantasialand, a top-rated amusement park known for its eye-catching features.

You'll be staying in Düsseldorf on this laid-back road trip through Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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