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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

A visit to Belgisches Viertel is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Cologne Zoological Garden is must-visit zoo and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Cologne Cathedral, a famous church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

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 Cologne.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Germany offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Bochum and drive in the direction of Düsseldorf for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Düsseldorf, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Make a stop at Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This worthwhile botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bochum Park. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to German Mining Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this museum.

You'll be staying in Düsseldorf on this laid-back road trip through Germany. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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.

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.

Make a stop at Burgplatz. This frequently visited public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Rheinpromenade located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you. After the boardwalk, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Kunstsammlung. Visitors usually appreciate the heritage-rich features of this art gallery. Next up is Schloss Benrath, a highly recommended palace.

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

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 dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Düsseldorf.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Düsseldorf as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

Day 5 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!

One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This enchanting wildlife reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Japanese Garden and learn what makes this mesmerizing botanical garden unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Nord Park. After exploring the park, head to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This interesting aquarium is a highlight in Düsseldorf.

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 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 Düsseldorf, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Im Goldenen Kessel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Konditorei Heinemann. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Let Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic castle before continuing your journey. Museum Kunstpalast is your next stop. This beloved museum is one of the best-rated sights in Düsseldorf.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This instagrammable art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Hofgarten and Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Okinii Düsseldorf City? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Julio as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Düsseldorf. The bars in Düsseldorf make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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

Phantasialand makes a great addition to your morning plans. This famous amusement park is a photogenic place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Brühl Castle, a visually striking castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Düsseldorf, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Drachenburg. This well-known castle offers a romantic encounter with Düsseldorf. Next, make your way to Siebengebirge to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, a worthwhile nature reserve that’s sure to impress. 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.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Germany as you make your way to Cologne. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Suderman, a top-rated bar in the area.

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