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

Say hello to Düsseldorf! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Düsseldorf is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hofgarten or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Düsseldorf. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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 Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Brewery im Füchschen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The ASH Düsseldorf. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Engelchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Cherie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Auberge Rock Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,358 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Nord Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,034 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Düsseldorf is Japanese Garden. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,176 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Düsseldorf offers an experience you will remember.

Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Düsseldorf. This sightseeing destination promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,015 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Schloss Benrath. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,705 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Studio 1. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sakura Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar 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 3 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 Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, Brühl, and Rösrath. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Düsseldorf, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Schloss Drachenburg is a great place to start. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Königswinter, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Heisterbacherrott may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Heisterbacherrott, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Siebengebirge one of your first sightseeing stops in Heisterbacherrott. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,647 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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 explore more of Cologne, 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.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Grid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toddy Tapper. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Drop by the renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Old Market. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting around 5,000,000 visitors every year, the fascinating Cologne Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Cologne. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 local and international travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Cologne, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Cologne below.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Feldhausen, Bottrop, and Gelsenkirchen, 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 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Feldhausen, 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 Cologne to Feldhausen may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Feldhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Movie Park. This amusement park is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 51,299 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Feldhausen and set your GPS to Bottrop. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Bottrop, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Tetrahedron In Bottrop. This sculpture is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bottrop, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,750 visitors.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary, and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vater&sohn, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Loka Lounge Dortmund, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Central Bar & More Dortmund likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Dortmund and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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 Dortmund by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is German Football Museum. This sports museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,503 reviews.

Continue your journey at Westfalenpark. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 travelers from near and far.

Dortmund is also the home of Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,572 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Dortmund Zoo. Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,732 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

You can learn more about Dortmund today by going on a tour. Dortmund offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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.

Dine in style at Strobels Dortmund, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lord. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

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 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Wuppertal, Solingen, Rubbelrath, and Sterkrade. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Wuppertal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dortmund behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Wuppertal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,835 visitors.

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Burg Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,193 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Essen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Südrock Rock Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gentlem, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen, and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

Continue your journey at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,211 travelers from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Duisburg Zoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Next up is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 visitors.

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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Im Goldenen Kessel, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Konditorei Heinemann, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Düsseldorf's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Burgplatz. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,559 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Okinii Düsseldorf City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Julio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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!