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

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Experience Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a captivating aquarium in the city. Then, head to Nord Park and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Japanese Garden. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing romantic spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the often recommended Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. Not far away, you'll also find Schloss Benrath. This palace is a history-steeped highlight in Düsseldorf.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Studio 1, known for its lively atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in 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 locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Old Market and learn what makes this enchanting public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the famous Cologne Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. This captivating zoo is a highlight in Cologne.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Feldhausen, Bottrop, and Gelsenkirchen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Feldhausen may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Feldhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Movie Park is a spectacular amusement park we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Feldhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bottrop. This drive usually takes around 17 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Tetrahedron In Bottrop, a worthwhile art installation in Bottrop. Explore its detailed features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gelsenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Nordstern Park, an up-and-coming park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Stage offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Grammons Restaurant, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary and classic french cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vater&sohn, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Central Bar & More Dortmund. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dortmund has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Dortmund.

Dortmund is brimming with adventures.

Your adventure in Dortmund is only getting started when you visit German Football Museum, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Westfalenpark. This captivating park is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dortmund's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This mesmerizing botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dortmund Zoo is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Strobels Dortmund, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Lord. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dortmund tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Head back to your accommodation in Dortmund and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip 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 4 places, which are Wuppertal, Solingen, Rubbelrath, and Oberhausen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Wuppertal. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Wuppertal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Solingen. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Savor the day by heading to Burg Castle, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rubbelrath may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Rubbelrath, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rubbelrath is Hotel Schloss Dyck, an underrated castle that draws attention for its romantic features.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Kettner's Kamota, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

Continue your lively evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gentlem is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Diamond Cocktail Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Essen 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.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein makes a great addition to your morning plans. This well-known museum is a breathtaking place to see in Essen.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Essen.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Duisburg, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Duisburg may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Duisburg is Duisburg Zoo, a notable zoo that draws attention for its gorgeous features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a historic park that stands out in the city.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

Head back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.