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

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Cologne. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the notable Cologne Zoological Garden, an eye-catching zoo in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Cologne Zoological Garden and Cologne Cathedral, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cologne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cologne 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 Cologne to find the best options for you!

Visit Schildergasse in Cologne for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Schildergasse has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Start your day with a visit to Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This locally appreciated botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Bochum Park, an underrated park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for German Mining Museum.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Düsseldorf. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Flair, a local favorite known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning french and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 4 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!

Today’s agenda in Düsseldorf includes a public square, a boardwalk, an art gallery, a palace and much more! Burgplatz is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Rheinpromenade, a frequently visited boardwalk, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, a romantic boardwalk, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Düsseldorf. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the beloved Kunstsammlung. If you’re looking for more, Schloss Benrath is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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 wonderful meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coffee Fellows. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Studio 1, known for its lively atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald, an underrated wildlife reserve that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Japanese Garden, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal. Continue your exploration at Nord Park. This park is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konditorei Heinemann is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Düsseldorf and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Düsseldorf, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Düsseldorf. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Düsseldorf. Next, head to Museum Kunstpalast, a frequently visited museum, known for its heritage-rich 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 Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This visually striking art gallery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Hofgarten and Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Savor the flavors at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Okinii Düsseldorf City beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Julio. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

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.

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

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Brühl. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including an amusement park, a castle, a mountain range, a nature reserve and much more! Start your adventure at Phantasialand. This impressive amusement park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Brühl Castle located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Schloss Drachenburg. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Siebengebirge. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this mountain range. Next up is Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, a highly recommended nature reserve.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cologne in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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