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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, and Feldhausen, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Muenster. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await. Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Muenster.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Muenster, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Nordkirchen, an increasingly popular castle that everyone visiting Nordkirchen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Gelsenkirchen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nordkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Gelsenkirchen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Nordstern Park is a frequently visited park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gelsenkirchen and set your GPS to Feldhausen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 24 min. Upon reaching Feldhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Movie Park, a spectacular amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

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 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Wuppertal, Oberhausen, Duisburg, and Cologne. You still have 3 nights left in Cologne.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Cologne Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most top-rated places to visit in Cologne.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Wuppertal. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 45 min. Upon reaching Wuppertal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal and explore the breathtaking features.

Set your GPS to Oberhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Oberhausen beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Gasometer Oberhausen, a popular museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a notable park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Duisburg Zoo, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Keldung. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Eltz Castle. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Koblenz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Keldung behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Koblenz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Deutsches Eck. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

Your self-guided tour starts at Maria Laach Abbey, a locally appreciated monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Limani, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Keep the evening going at Suderman, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a museum and a zoo. Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden located in Cologne for an enchanting atmosphere.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, 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 29 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Phantasialand, an extraordinary amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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 book a table at Cafe Riese Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Servus Colonia Alpina. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Essen today.

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

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Essen. Your travel time is around 58 min.

Begin your journey at Museum Folkwang and explore the photogenic features. Next, make your way to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the laser tag arena, continue to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, an UNESCO world heritage-listed museum.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dortmund. This drive usually takes around 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Westfalenpark, a notable park known for its eye-catching features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an up-and-coming botanical garden that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Muenster. Muenster offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delectable modern french 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 Spitzner, 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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Muenster.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eulen & Lerchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The James provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Say good night to Muenster and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!