One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Essen and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Düsseldorf.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This photogenic aquarium will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Nord Park and learn what makes this awe-inspiring park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Japanese Garden. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This locally appreciated boardwalk is a highlight in Düsseldorf. As your day continues, stop by Schloss Benrath, known for its history-steeped features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Yoshi by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Düsseldorf is Le Flair, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious french and contemporary menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Studio 1, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sakura Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Engel Rockbar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Head back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Cologne, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bonn and Cologne.

Check out the captivating zoo, Cologne Zoological Garden. Afterward, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bonn. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a notable museum that everyone visiting Bonn should see. Next, head to Rheinaue. This mesmerizing park is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Catch Rheinpark before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Rhine Garden Sculpture, 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 Museum Ludwig, a locally appreciated museum. For a change of scene, check out Cologne Cathedral, known for its stunning features. We also recommend visiting Old Market. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Dortmund and Feldhausen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Dortmund’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. Dortmund welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rombergpark Botanical Garden. Spend some time admiring the remarkable features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Westfalenpark. This popular park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Feldhausen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 43 min. Upon reaching Feldhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Movie Park and explore the picture-perfect features.

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

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Kettner's Kamota, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Südrock Rock Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gentlem provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Düsseldorf, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the interesting museum, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Afterward, continue to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a laser tag arena every traveler should visit. As you explore Essen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Duisburg, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Duisburg may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Duisburg is Duisburg Zoo, a captivating zoo that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a breathtaking park that stands out in the city.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a highly-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're eager to try something different, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

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