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

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

Begin your adventure at Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. This is a locally appreciated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is German Football Museum, an underrated museum in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dortmund Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Casino Hohensyburg, another of the city’s beloved attractions.

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, Dortmund has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Today's adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This romantic botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

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

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Essen. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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

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

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.

Keep the evening going at Südrock Rock Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gentlem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Diamond Cocktail Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Essen, where you'll stay for 3 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 Essen, and meet locals along the way!

Immerse yourself in Essen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Villa Hügel. This respected museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Hügel Park, a must-visit park 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 Ruine Neue Isenburg, an increasingly popular archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Stadtgarten, known for its mesmerizing features. We also recommend visiting Museum Folkwang. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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 wonderful meal at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining spot in Essen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Banana Leaf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Artemis. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Essen.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Metropol Café-bar Essen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Temple Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Zum Pümpchen provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Essen 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!

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!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Essen, including a museum and a bird watching area. Start your adventure at Kokerei Zollverein. This intriguing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein located in Essen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Shaft Xii. Its respected features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Red Dot Design Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this museum. Next up is Vogelschutzgebiet Heisinger Bogen, a highly recommended bird watching area.

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.

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 SAUSALITOS, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant tablo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rosemarie Garten & Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Essen.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Goldbar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cafe Nord for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Louis Café & Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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

Essen is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Botanischer Garten Grugapark, a locally renowned park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Krupp-park, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This laser tag arena is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

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

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 Essen, 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 CoCoLÁ - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Essen a der Lichtburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café LIVRES. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Essen.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across 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 city of Gelsenkirchen. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Dortmund, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the increasingly popular Nordstern Park, a noteworthy park in Essen. Next, go to Movie Park.

After visiting Nordstern Park and Movie Park, have a stroll along Essen's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Schloss Nordkirchen. This romantic castle offers a unique experience.

In the city of Dortmund, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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

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