Travel packages in Germany

Road trips in Germany

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

1 / 60

Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.

Perfect travel plans

Everything included

Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights

Hotel

Select dates

Car rental

Select dates

Tours & tickets

Select dates

Travel plan

From A to Z

Travel agent

24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Germany. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 3 nights in Dortmund, 2 nights in Essen, 1 night in Düsseldorf, and 2 nights in Cologne. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Dortmund, 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 Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Feldhausen, Gelsenkirchen, Bochum, Essen, Oberhausen, Duisburg, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn, 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, accommodations, 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!

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Dortmund

Include flights

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65

I live in

Pick-up: 10:00

Drop-off: 10:00

Include car

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Dortmund - Arrival day
More

Westfalenpark
More

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Dortmund, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dortmund. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!

Day 2

Dortmund
More

Drive 15 km, 58 min

German Football Museum
Dortmund U-Tower
Rombergpark Botanical Garden
Dortmund Zoo
More

You have 1 night left in Dortmund. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Bring home unique finds from Dortmund's bustling shopping hub, Dortmund Indoor Market Hall. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Dortmund Indoor Market Hall offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

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

Day 3

Dortmund
Essen
More

Drive 117 km, 1 hour 56 min

Movie Park Germany
Nordstern Park
Bochum Park
More

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Feldhausen, Gelsenkirchen, and Bochum. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Essen's best restaurants.

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

Day 4

Essen
More

Drive 32 km, 1 hour 18 min

Shaft XII
UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
Kokerei zollverein
LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
Villa Hügel
More

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Dortmund. You’ll stay in Essen for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5

Essen
Dusseldorf
More

Drive 69 km, 1 hour 45 min

Gasometer Oberhausen
Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
Duisburg Zoo
Tiger & Turtle
More

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

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Düsseldorf's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 6

Dusseldorf
Cologne
More

Drive 57 km, 1 hour 35 min

Burgplatz
Hofgarten
Nord Park
Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
Schloss Benrath
More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Düsseldorf. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne, where will spend 2 nights.

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.

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

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

Day 7

Cologne
More

Drive 2 km, 36 min

Cologne Cathedral
Old Market
Cologne Chocolate Museum
Schildergasse
Belgisches Viertel
More

You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

A visit to Schildergasse 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 all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

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

Day 8

Cologne
Dortmund
More

Drive 207 km, 3 hours 3 min

Phantasialand
Schloss Drachenburg
GOP Varieté-Theater Bonn
House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany
Rheinaue
More

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 9

Dortmund - Departure day
More

Deusenberg
More

Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Savor your final moments in Germany at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

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!

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Germany

From 0

Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.