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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights.

Make time for Rheinpark, an intriguing park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cologne Zoological Garden, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Cologne Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Cologne, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Keldung, Alken, and Koblenz.

Whether you decide to explore Keldung on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Keldung. 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 1 hour 40 min. Upon reaching Keldung, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Eltz Castle, an interesting castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Alken. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Alken is Thurant Castle, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Koblenz may take around 31 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Deutsches Eck, a popular monument that everyone visiting Koblenz should see. Next, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This stunning castle is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

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

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.

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.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Solingen, Oberhausen, and Moers. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen, where will spend 1 night.

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 Solingen. Your travel time is around 37 min.

Burg Castle is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oberhausen. This car ride takes around 58 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Gasometer Oberhausen. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Sea Life Oberhausen. This notable aquarium is a traveler-favorite in the city.

After soaking in Oberhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Moers. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Moers, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Schlosspark, a worthwhile park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Essen. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hannappel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Schote, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional austrian and french contemporary menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Südrock Rock Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gentlem for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Essen and Duisburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Experience Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 18 min.

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

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Engelchen, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Düsseldorf is brimming with adventures.

Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is an ideal stop early in the day. This captivating aquarium is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Nord Park, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Burgplatz, an increasingly popular public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hofgarten and Schloss Benrath.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Düsseldorf is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Düsseldorf.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coffee Fellows is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Studio 1, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sakura Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Engel Rockbar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Germany includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 49 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, an extraordinary amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see.

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 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Königswinter is Schloss Drachenburg, an interesting castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bonn. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, an often recommended performing arts theater known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a popular museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Rheinaue and uncover the details of this romantic park.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe Riese Köln, 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 Bangkok Thai 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 Servus Colonia Alpina. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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