One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne and Frankfurt

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited museum, German Football Museum. Afterward, continue to Museum Ostwall, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Dortmund U-tower. This frequently visited art installation is an essential stop. Following that, head to Westfalenpark, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

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

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Cologne Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Museum Ludwig, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Dortmund by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Rhine Garden Sculpture. This romantic park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Old Market also adds charm to your journey.

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.

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

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

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, a frequently visited museum in the city. Then, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne and when you are ready for more, go to Malakoffturm. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots. After exploring the monument, visit the locally renowned Cologne Zoological Garden.

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.

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

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Städel Museum. Continue your discovery at Iron Footbridge, a respected monument 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 Römerberg. This locally renowned public square offers a visually striking encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Caricatura - Museum For Comic Art to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Frankfurt Cathedral, a frequently visited church 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 Cologne.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Im Herzen Afrikas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Gute Stute after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Gleis 25 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 7 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 Würzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Marienberg Fortress. This respected castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Old Main Bridge, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Four Tubes Fountain, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Würzburg Residence. This visually striking palace is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Brasserie Lotte, an iconic dining spot in Dortmund. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ALEX Dortmund, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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