One-Week Relaxed Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Essen

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Dortmund, 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 Dortmund, and meet locals along the way!

Start your day at Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. Then, wander over to German Football Museum. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dortmund Zoo. This visually striking zoo is a favorite among visitors.

Dortmund offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Casino Hohensyburg is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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 Dortmund, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dortmund!

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Germany offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Bochum and end it in Essen. You’ll stay in Essen for 4 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Germany.

Your adventure in Dortmund is only getting started when you visit Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This underrated zoo is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dortmund's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Bochum Park. German Mining Museum is also worth visiting.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Essen. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Germany.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Kettner's Kamota, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

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 Essen. The bars in Essen make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Südrock Rock Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Gentlem offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Diamond Cocktail Lounge, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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

Visiting Villa Hügel is always a good idea. This curiosity-inducing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Hügel Park, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ruine Neue Isenburg. This increasingly popular archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Stadtgarten, where you can take in majestic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Museum Folkwang These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Essen 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 Essen.

Dine in style at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Banana Leaf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Artemis. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Essen.

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

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Essen 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 Essen. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Essen. 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 Essen!

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Kokerei Zollverein. This historic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and learn what makes this picture-perfect museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Shaft Xii. After exploring the museum, head to Red Dot Design Museum. This frequently visited museum is a highlight in Essen. As your day continues, stop by Vogelschutzgebiet Heisinger Bogen, known for its idyllic features.

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

Exploring the food culture in Essen 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAUSALITOS, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant tablo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Rosemarie Garten & Bar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Essen.

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 Essen. The bars in Essen make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Goldbar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cafe Nord, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Louis Café & Bar 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!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Essen, 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 Essen, and meet locals along the way!

To truly experience Essen, make sure to drop by Botanischer Garten Grugapark. This interesting park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Krupp-park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Essen. This laser tag arena is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at CoCoLÁ - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Café, a popular restaurant in Essen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Essen at Cafe Extrablatt Essen a der Lichtburg, 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 Café LIVRES. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Essen tonight.

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

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Germany offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Gelsenkirchen and drive in the direction of Feldhausen for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Dortmund, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Make a stop at Nordstern Park. This often recommended park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Movie Park located in Essen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Schloss Nordkirchen. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you.

You'll be staying in Dortmund on this laid-back road trip through Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Dortmund.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALEX Dortmund, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund 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.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!