One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Essen and Düsseldorf and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Rheinpark, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Zoological Garden. This locally renowned zoo is known for its mesmerizing appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cologne Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Lindt Chocolate Museum is also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 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 Keldung, Alken, and Koblenz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Eltz Castle. This romantic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Thurant Castle and learn what makes this respected castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Deutsches Eck. After exploring the monument, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular castle is a highlight in Cologne.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Solingen, Oberhausen, and Moers, 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 Essen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Burg Castle. This locally renowned castle is a historic place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Gasometer Oberhausen, a historic museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sea Life Oberhausen. This interesting aquarium offers an instagrammable encounter with Cologne. Schlosspark is the last of our recommendations for today. 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.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen 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 Essen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern 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 Kettner's Kamota, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite austrian and french contemporary 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 Essen.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Südrock Rock Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gentlem is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a laser tag arena, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. This locally renowned zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, where you can take in respected features.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Yoshi by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Le Flair. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Engelchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Cherie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. The first attraction of today is Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This well-known aquarium is a photogenic place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Nord Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Düsseldorf, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Burgplatz. This worthwhile public square offers a standout encounter with Düsseldorf. Hofgarten is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Düsseldorf.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coffee Fellows. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Studio 1, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sakura Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences in the charming village of Düsseldorf. Your adventure starts at Phantasialand, a famous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Schloss Drachenburg. This locally renowned castle is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Düsseldorf's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn. This romantic performing arts theater offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany is also worth visiting, along with Rheinaue. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Riese Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bangkok Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Servus Colonia Alpina as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!