9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Essen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne

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

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at German Football Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dortmund U-tower, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Rombergpark Botanical Garden, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Dortmund. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dortmund Zoo. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this zoo 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.

Visit Thier-Galerie Dortmund in Dortmund for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Thier-Galerie Dortmund has to offer, including restaurants, cafes, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Essen. You have 1 night left in Essen. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the frequently visited Shaft Xii, a heritage-rich museum in Essen. Next, go to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein.

After visiting Shaft Xii and Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, take time to explore Essen's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kokerei Zollverein. This breathtaking museum offers a unique experience. Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Villa Hügel, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Essen.

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 Essen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining spot in Essen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Banana Leaf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Artemis. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Essen.

Continue your lively evening at Metropol Café-bar Essen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Temple Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zum Pümpchen ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Oberhausen and Duisburg, 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 adventure in Essen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Gasometer Oberhausen. This stunning museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Duisburg Zoo, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Tiger & Turtle. This instagrammable art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Engelchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Cherie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Düsseldorf. 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 route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Burgplatz. This intriguing public square is a romantic place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Hofgarten, a standout park 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 increasingly popular park offers an eye-catching encounter with Düsseldorf. Next, make your way to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Schloss Benrath, a locally renowned palace that’s sure to impress. 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.

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

Begin 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 7 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 visit to Schildergasse in Cologne is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Belgisches Viertel as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is a historic place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Old Market, an instagrammable public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This well-known museum offers a photogenic encounter with Cologne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

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

On day 8 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 Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the widely recognized amusement park, Phantasialand. Afterward, continue to Schloss Drachenburg, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn. This locally appreciated performing arts theater is an essential stop. Following that, head to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Rheinaue, a popular park in the village.

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

As you explore more of Dortmund, 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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!