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

On day 4 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 Koblenz, Keldung, and Glees. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Koblenz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mainz behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. Koblenz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Deutsches Eck, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Keldung, 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 Koblenz to Keldung may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Eltz Castle, an interesting castle in Keldung. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Keldung, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Glees. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Maria Laach Abbey, an underrated monastery known for its picture-perfect features.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, 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 Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 2 nights 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 take advantage of the nearby must-see sights located nearby.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a public square, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the famous Cologne Cathedral. Just a short distance away is Old Market, a visually striking public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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 Cologne, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Oberhausen and Duisburg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Oberhausen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Gasometer Oberhausen, a notable museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 Oberhausen to Duisburg may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Tiger & Turtle. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art installation.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Dortmund. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Muenster. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Essen. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Essen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive in Essen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum in Essen. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dortmund. This car ride takes around 40 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a worthwhile botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Dortmund Zoo, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings. Next, explore Westfalenpark, yet another captivating place to see in the area.

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 Muenster. Muenster 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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Muenster by booking a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Spitzner, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Muenster. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your lively evening at Eulen & Lerchen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The James is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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