One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling west to Aachen
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Düsseldorf and 2 nights in Aachen. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Düsseldorf, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Phantasialand and Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Hillesheim, Weiersbach, Schalkenmehren, Nohn, Aachen, Brühl, Erftstadt, and Bedburg, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Düsseldorf - arrival day
- Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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- Hofgarten
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Say hello to Düsseldorf! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 4 nights before you continue your adventure!
Düsseldorf is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hofgarten or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Düsseldorf. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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.
Savor the flavors at Brewery Schumacher, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Brewery im Füchschen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The ASH Düsseldorf. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Engelchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cherie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Düsseldorf
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Burgplatz
- Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf
- Rheinturm
- Schloss Benrath
- Hofgarten
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Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 3 nights left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a historic, and a grand. Start at Burgplatz, a frequently visited public square in the city. Then, head to Rheinpromenade and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable boardwalk.
There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf and when you are ready for more, go to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots. After exploring the boardwalk, visit the well-known Rheinturm. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the well-known Schloss Benrath, a well-known palace 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.
As you explore more of Düsseldorf, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Studio 1, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 3 – Düsseldorf
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Wildpark Grafenberger Wald
- Japanese Garden
- Nord Park
- Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
- Hofgarten
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s route brings a picturesque, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a charming, and a detailed. The first attraction of today is Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This locally appreciated wildlife reserve is a picturesque place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Japanese Garden, an eye-catching botanical garden with stories to tell.
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 Nord Park. This underrated park offers a peaceful encounter with Düsseldorf. Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is the last of our recommendations for today. 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.
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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – Düsseldorf and Duisburg
- Dusseldorf
- Duisburg
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Drive 86 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Duisburg Zoo
- Duisburg Inner Harbour
- Sechs-Seen-Platte
- Tiger & Turtle
- Hofgarten
- More
On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Düsseldorf for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Duisburg and Düsseldorf to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Düsseldorf to Duisburg may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park in Duisburg. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Duisburg Zoo. This captivating zoo is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Duisburg Inner Harbour is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting marina in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the locally appreciated Sechs-seen-platte and discover what makes this lake unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Tiger & Turtle, a noteworthy art installation many travelers find worthwhile the visit.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Düsseldorf's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Okinii Düsseldorf City, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Julio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 5 – Düsseldorf, Hillesheim, Weiersbach, Schalkenmehren, Nohn, and Aachen
- Dusseldorf
- Hillesheim
- Weiersbach
- Schalkenmehren
- Aachen
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Drive 309 km, 4 hours 20 min
- Wildlife and adventure park Daun
- Schalkenmehrener Maar
- Hofgarten
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On day 5 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 Hillesheim, Weiersbach, Schalkenmehren, and Nohn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aachen, where you will stay for 2 nights.
When you’ve had your share of Hillesheim, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Weiersbach. Your travel time is around 24 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun, a locally appreciated wildlife reserve that everyone visiting Weiersbach should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’ve had your share of Weiersbach, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Schalkenmehren. Your travel time is around 14 min.
Schalkenmehrener Maar is a locally appreciated lake we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Middelberg, a highly-rated dining destination in Aachen. If you're eager to try something different, consider AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kanpai Sushi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aachen this evening.
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!
Day 6 – Aachen
- Aachen
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Drive 9 km, 52 min
- Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo
- Carolus Thermen
- Elisenbrunnen
- Aachen Cathedral
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Aachen. You’ll stay in Aachen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Set out on a day brimming with an instagrammable, a charming, a standout, a grand, an enchanting, a profound, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at the often recommended Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, a visually striking zoo in Aachen. Next, go to Carolus Thermen.
After visiting Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo and Carolus Thermen, take time to explore Aachen's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Elisenbrunnen. This photogenic monument offers a unique experience. Aachen Cathedral is another noteworthy stop.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aachen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Extrablatt Aachen, an iconic dining spot in Aachen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The ASH Aachen, a popular restaurant in Aachen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Liège, a hidden gem nestled in Aachen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Grotesque Absinthe Bar Aachen, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Last Exit, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Kiste provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 7 – Aachen, Brühl, Erftstadt, Bedburg, and Düsseldorf
- Aachen
- Eckdorf
- Liblar
- Bedburg
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 7 min
- Phantasialand
- Aachen Cathedral
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Brühl, Erftstadt, and Bedburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Aachen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brühl. Your travel time is around 51 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, a famous amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Set your GPS to Erftstadt and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Erftstadt beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Schloßpark Gracht, a worthwhile park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Set your GPS to Bedburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bedburg beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Schloss Bedburg. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at voco Düsseldorf Seestern, an IHG Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SABO Restaurant Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lezzet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 8 – Düsseldorf - departure day
- Dusseldorf - Departure day
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- Königsallee
- Hofgarten
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Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Düsseldorf’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.
Königsallee is must-visit street and a great starting point for the day.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Conference Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Schweine Janes Altstadt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
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