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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Dortmund on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. German Football Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich museum before continuing your journey. Dortmund U-tower is your next stop. This worthwhile art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Dortmund.

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 Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This romantic botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Dortmund Zoo.

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 Dortmund. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, recognized for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Gaststätte Lütge-eck is an excellent place to start.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Essen. You’ll stay in Essen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Essen today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Shaft Xii. This photogenic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and learn what makes this respected museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Kokerei Zollverein. After exploring the museum, head to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This curiosity-inducing laser tag arena is a highlight in Essen. As your day continues, stop by Villa Hügel, known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Metropol Café-bar Essen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Temple Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zum Pümpchen is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Oberhausen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a park, a zoo, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Gasometer Oberhausen. This captivating museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a must-see park 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 Zoo. This locally renowned zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Tiger & Turtle, where you can take in breathtaking features. 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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Flair, a local favorite known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning french and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Düsseldorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular public square, Burgplatz. Afterward, continue to Hofgarten, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Nord Park. This up-and-coming park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Schloss Benrath, a popular palace in the city.

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 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Grid Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Toddy Tapper, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, and a museum. Begin your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This is an impressive church you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Market, a captivating public square in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Soul Bar Cologne after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an amusement park, a castle, a performing arts theater, a museum, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the top-rated Phantasialand and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Schloss Drachenburg, a history-steeped castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, one of the village’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. When you're finished at the museum, Rheinaue awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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