One-Week Relaxed Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf

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

Belgisches Viertel is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Cologne, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Cologne Zoological Garden is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most popular places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cologne.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This mesmerizing botanical garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, a must-visit zoo in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Bochum Park, a locally appreciated park. For a change of scene, check out German Mining Museum, known for its photogenic features.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Düsseldorf in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

Exploring the food culture in Düsseldorf offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Engelchen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Cherie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Düsseldorf, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Burgplatz. This up-and-coming public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Rheinpromenade, an instagrammable boardwalk, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, a beloved boardwalk. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Kunstsammlung. Round off your day at Schloss Benrath, another gem in Düsseldorf with enchanting features to discover.

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 Düsseldorf to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Düsseldorf.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

Keep the evening going at Bar Studio 1, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sakura Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Engel Rockbar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf, and meet locals along the way!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald, a frequently visited wildlife reserve in the city. Then, head to Japanese Garden and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching botanical garden.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Nord Park. This is one of the city’s most often recommended mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the captivating Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Düsseldorf offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 6 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!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the up-and-coming Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth, a romantic castle in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Museum Kunstpalast.

After visiting Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth and Museum Kunstpalast, have a stroll along Düsseldorf's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This visually striking art gallery offers a unique experience. Hofgarten is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Düsseldorf offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Okinii Düsseldorf City is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Julio. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Düsseldorf and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Brühl and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Brühl and the town of Königswinter. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including an amusement park, a castle, a mountain range, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Phantasialand. This astonishing amusement park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Brühl Castle, which may be one of the most enchanting 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 Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Siebengebirge and Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cologne. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Limani, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cologne and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.