One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne, Mainz, Aachen, and Düsseldorf

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dortmund. 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.

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

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a zoo, a museum, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This interesting zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Gasometer Oberhausen, which may be one of the most gorgeous 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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Duisburg Zoo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mainz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a church, a public square, and a museum. Start your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Market located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Lindt Chocolate Museum. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Mainz. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Geberts Weinstuben in Mainz by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Geberts Weinstuben offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious classic and seasonal menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore FAVORITE restaurant, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and creative cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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

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

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

Today’s itinerary in Mainz covers several incredible sights, including a castle and a monument. Start your adventure at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This captivating castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Deutsches Eck, a must-see monument 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 Eltz Castle. This notable castle offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen 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 Aachen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Aachen by reserving a table at La Bécasse. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional classic french menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Die Wg, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Gin Library is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Domkeller also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 6 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 Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Aachen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Elisenbrunnen. This symbolic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Aachen Cathedral, another UNESCO world heritage-designated attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Carolus Thermen, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Phantasialand. This instagrammable amusement park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Schloss Drachenburg, a notable castle, and take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen and Nordkirchen, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Museum Folkwang. This curiosity-inducing museum is an instagrammable place to see in Düsseldorf.

As you stroll around Düsseldorf, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This interesting museum offers a respected encounter with Düsseldorf. Next, make your way to Shaft Xii to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Schloss Nordkirchen, a curiosity-inducing castle 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 Düsseldorf.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gaststätte Lütge-eck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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