One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling west to Aachen

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 the Benrath palace in Dusseldorf, Germany
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Hillesheim, Weiersbach, Schalkenmehren, Nohn, Aachen, Brühl, Erftstadt, and Bedburg.

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. Marvel at the remarkable Duisburg Zoo, learn more about the unique Aachen Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rheinturm.

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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Hofgarten
BurgplatzRheinpromenadeRheinuferpromenade DüsseldorfRheinturmSchloss Benrath
Wildpark Grafenberger WaldJapanese GardenNord ParkAquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
Landschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooDuisburg Inner HarbourSechs-Seen-PlatteTiger & Turtle
Das KriminalhausWildlife and adventure park DaunSchalkenmehrener MaarDreimühlen-WasserfallAhbachtal
Aachener Tierpark EuregiozooCarolus ThermenElisenbrunnenAachen Cathedral
PhantasialandSchloßpark GrachtSchloss Bedburg
Königsallee

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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  • Hofgarten
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Düsseldorf. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Engelchen, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Burgplatz
  • Rheinpromenade
  • Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf
  • Rheinturm
  • Schloss Benrath
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Düsseldorf on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Burgplatz is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable public square before continuing your journey. Rheinpromenade is your next stop. This intriguing boardwalk is one of the best-rated sights in Düsseldorf.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This enchanting boardwalk is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rheinturm and Schloss Benrath.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Yoshi by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Le Flair. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Studio 1 offer a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sakura Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Engel Rockbar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Wildpark Grafenberger Wald
  • Japanese Garden
  • Nord Park
  • Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
  • More

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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including a wildlife reserve, a botanical garden, a park, an aquarium and much more! Start your adventure at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This increasingly popular wildlife reserve is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Japanese Garden located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Nord Park. Its masterful features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. Visitors usually appreciate the photogenic features of this aquarium.

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 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.

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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 86 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Duisburg Inner Harbour
  • Sechs-Seen-Platte
  • Tiger & Turtle
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Duisburg. You still have 1 night left in Düsseldorf.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a park, a zoo, a marina, a lake, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This locally renowned park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Duisburg Zoo, a must-see zoo 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 Duisburg Inner Harbour. This often recommended marina offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sechs-seen-platte, where you can take in mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Tiger & Turtle. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Dusseldorf
  • Aachen
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Drive 309 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Das Kriminalhaus
  • Wildlife and adventure park Daun
  • Schalkenmehrener Maar
  • Dreimühlen-Wasserfall
  • Ahbachtal
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hillesheim, Weiersbach, Schalkenmehren, and Nohn. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a wildlife reserve, a lake, a waterfall, a nature reserve and much more! Start your adventure at Das Kriminalhaus. This often recommended museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the majestic wonders of Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun, a must-see wildlife reserve in the town.

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 Schalkenmehrener Maar. This increasingly popular lake offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Dreimühlen-wasserfall, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Ahbachtal. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Middelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kanpai Sushi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aachen tonight.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Aachen
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Drive 9 km, 52 min

  • Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo
  • Carolus Thermen
  • Elisenbrunnen
  • Aachen Cathedral
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Aachen. You have 1 night left in Aachen. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This beloved zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Carolus Thermen, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Elisenbrunnen, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Aachen. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Aachen Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this church offers.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Extrablatt Aachen, a top-rated dining destination in Aachen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The ASH Aachen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Liège. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aachen this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Grotesque Absinthe Bar Aachen. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Last Exit offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Kiste, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Aachen
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • Phantasialand
  • Schloßpark Gracht
  • Schloss Bedburg
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl, Erftstadt, and Bedburg, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Aachen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Phantasialand is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking amusement park before continuing your journey. Schloßpark Gracht is your next stop. This frequently visited park is one of the best-rated sights in Aachen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Schloss Bedburg. This romantic castle is a sight to behold.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Dusseldorf - Departure day
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  • Königsallee
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Königsallee. This locally appreciated street is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Düsseldorf’s popular marketplace, Carlsplatz Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Schweine Janes Altstadt, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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