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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dortmund has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Dortmund by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a gorgeous, a charming, a beautiful, and a noteworthy await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved museum, German Football Museum. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Dortmund U-tower. A visit to this art installation is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Steinwache. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Dortmund Zoo, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Rombergpark Botanical Garden and learn why this botanical garden is renowned as one of the city's most underrated attractions.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Bottrop. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nordkirchen, 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 Dortmund to Nordkirchen may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nordkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Nordkirchen, an up-and-coming castle known for its standout features.

Feldhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nordkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Feldhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Movie Park is a famous amusement park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Feldhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bottrop. Your travel time is around 17 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tetrahedron In Bottrop. Spend some time admiring the detailed features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Essen. 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 Essen's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Essen, Schote shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Südrock Rock Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gentlem is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Essen for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bochum and Essen.

Get ready for a day filled with an enchanting, an eye-catching, a respected, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed in the charming city of Essen. Your adventure starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This frequently visited laser tag arena is known for its historic appeal.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Bochum. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 20 min. Upon reaching Bochum, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

+ Fossilium Bochum Zoo is an up-and-coming zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to German Mining Museum, a heritage-rich museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining destination in Essen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Banana Leaf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Artemis. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Essen this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Metropol Café-bar Essen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Temple Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zum Pümpchen likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Duisburg and Düsseldorf. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Duisburg and set your GPS to Düsseldorf. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 25 min. Upon reaching Düsseldorf, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Hofgarten, an increasingly popular park known for its eye-catching features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Schloss Benrath, a well-known palace that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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.

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 an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Grid Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Toddy Tapper, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer a visually striking, a charming, an awe-inspiring, a heritage-rich, an inviting, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated! Start at Lindt Chocolate Museum, a notable museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Old Market, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Cologne Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Cologne Zoological Garden.

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

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.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl, Königswinter, and Heisterbacherrott, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Brühl, 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 Brühl to Brühl may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Brühl Castle, a frequently visited castle that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brühl, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Drachenburg, a captivating castle known for its instagrammable features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try ALEX Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

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