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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This visually striking aquarium will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Nord Park and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.

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

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Pink Pepper delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Yoshi by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese and sushi specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Le Flair, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Studio 1 stand out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Engel Rockbar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Brühl, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, and Rösrath. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Phantasialand, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking amusement park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Brühl Castle, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular castle renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Düsseldorf by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Schloss Drachenburg. This history-steeped castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Düsseldorf experience. We also recommend visiting Siebengebirge, a curiosity-inducing mountain range. Nearby, you'll also find Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

Start your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a park, and a zoo. Start your adventure at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This well-known museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Rheinaue, 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 Cologne Zoological Garden. This captivating zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, where you can take in picture-perfect features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular park, Rheinpark. Afterward, continue to Rhine Garden Sculpture, a park 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. Next, make your way to Museum Ludwig. This often recommended museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Old Market, a popular public square in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Limani, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at Suderman, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund and Feldhausen, 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 Essen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Rombergpark Botanical Garden is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Westfalenpark, a well-known park, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Movie Park. This visually striking amusement park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, 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 Essen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hannappel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Schote, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional austrian and french contemporary menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Südrock Rock Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gentlem offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Essen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Essen on today’s itinerary. First up is 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. Next, make your way to Duisburg Zoo. This interesting zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Im Goldenen Kessel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konditorei Heinemann as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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