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.

Today's adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. Then, enjoy German Football Museum, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Dortmund Zoo, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Casino Hohensyburg. This picture-perfect casino is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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 Dortmund to find the best options for you!

Bring home unique finds from Dortmund's bustling shopping hub, Westenhellweg. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Westenhellweg offers plenty of options, including restaurants, cafes, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Dortmund, Grammons Restaurant shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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

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

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience 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.

Start your adventure at Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo located in Dortmund 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 eye-catching features of this museum.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Essen in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

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, 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 Südrock Rock Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gentlem for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bochum can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

Day 4 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!

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a park, and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Villa Hügel. This beloved museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring 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 eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Museum Folkwang. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Banana Leaf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Artemis is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Metropol Café-bar Essen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Temple Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Zum Pümpchen provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Essen, 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 Essen, and meet locals along the way!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Essen, including a museum and a bird watching area. Start your day with a visit to Kokerei Zollverein. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Essen 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 Shaft Xii, an often recommended museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Red Dot Design Museum and Vogelschutzgebiet Heisinger Bogen.

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 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.

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

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Goldbar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cafe Nord offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Louis Café & Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Essen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day 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 scenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This laser tag arena is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

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 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 delicious meal at CoCoLÁ - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Café, a highly-rated dining destination in Essen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Extrablatt Essen a der Lichtburg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café LIVRES. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Essen this evening.

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

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

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Gelsenkirchen and end it in the city of Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Essen. Your adventure starts at Nordstern Park, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Movie Park. This widely recognized amusement park is known for its noteworthy appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Essen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Schloss Nordkirchen. This enchanting castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dortmund. 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Brasserie Lotte, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dortmund at ALEX Dortmund, 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 Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dortmund tonight.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.