7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling west to Cologne

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, and Feldhausen. 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 4 nights.

Muenster is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a park, and an amusement park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Schloss Nordkirchen. Just a short distance away is Nordstern Park, a picture-perfect park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Movie Park, one of the village’s most famous spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Grid Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Gasometer Oberhausen. This popular museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Duisburg Zoo. This locally renowned zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tiger & Turtle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 2 nights left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This breathtaking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Deutsches Eck and learn what makes this historic monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Thurant Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Eltz Castle. This well-known castle is a highlight in Cologne.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Suderman, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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 5 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brühl and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

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 village.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including an amusement park, a church, and a museum. Start your day at Phantasialand. This photogenic amusement park is a famous place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If culturally significant sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Lindt Chocolate Museum. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Riese Köln, 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 Bangkok Thai 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 Servus Colonia Alpina, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This breathtaking museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Rombergpark Botanical Garden, another detailed attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Dortmund Zoo, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Westfalenpark. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muenster, 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 Muenster, 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 Muenster by securing a reservation at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Spitzner, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Eulen & Lerchen. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The James offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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