One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling west to Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Essen

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, and Feldhausen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Muenster covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a park, and an amusement park. Start your adventure at Schloss Nordkirchen. This up-and-coming castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Nordstern Park, a must-see park in the village.

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 Movie Park. This spectacular amusement park offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Market, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Cologne Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most famous spots.

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 Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 2 vibrant destinations - Brühl and Aachen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Cologne 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 photogenic amusement park before continuing your journey. Carolus Thermen is your next stop. This frequently visited spa is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Elisenbrunnen. This symbolic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Aachen Cathedral and Marktplatz Am Rathaus.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Flair, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for french and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at Engelchen, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Cherie, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Auberge Rock Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences in Düsseldorf. Begin your sightseeing with Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This notable aquarium is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Nord Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Düsseldorf, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Burgplatz. This increasingly popular public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Hofgarten, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Schloss Benrath is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, 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 Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Bar Studio 1, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sakura Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Engel Rockbar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Solingen, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a castle, a museum, a park, a zoo and much more! Start your day with a visit to Burg Castle. This popular castle 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 historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf 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 notable park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Duisburg Zoo.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Essen is Kettner's Kamota, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious austrian and french contemporary menu.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Dortmund. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Essen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a botanical garden, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a remarkable botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Dortmund Zoo, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Westfalenpark.

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

As you explore more of Muenster, 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Muenster by securing a reservation at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, celebrated for its delectable modern french 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 Spitzner, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Eulen & Lerchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The James, offering a different kind of charm.

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