9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling west to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Trier, and Cologne

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nordkirchen, Bottrop, and Feldhausen, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Muenster. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Schloss Nordkirchen is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Muenster. Next, head to Tetrahedron In Bottrop, an often recommended art installation, known for its detailed features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Movie Park. This visually striking amusement park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 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 culinary 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 delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aachen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Siebengebirge. This increasingly popular mountain range is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Schloss Drachenburg, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Phantasialand, one of the most spectacular places to see in Düsseldorf. This amusement park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Elisenbrunnen. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Aachen Cathedral, a top-rated church that adds another dimension to your day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aachen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of classic french cuisine. Alternatively, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Die Wg is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Gin Library, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Domkeller. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Koblenz, Keldung, and Trier. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Trier. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular castle is a picture-perfect place to see in Aachen. Continue your discovery at Deutsches Eck, a breathtaking monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Aachen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Eltz Castle. This captivating castle offers a standout encounter with Aachen. Next, make your way to Porta Nigra to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Aachen.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Trier. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Trier, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Trier by securing a table at Bagatelle. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french contemporary and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit BECKER'S, famous for its scrumptious creative and classic dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Chrome!, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Studio 11 Gbr is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Simplicissimus also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 5 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 Trier, Glees, and Bonn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Trier. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an archeological site, a monastery, a museum, a performing arts theater, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Trier Amphitheater. This is an up-and-coming archeological site you should not miss. Another must-see is Maria Laach Abbey, a beloved monastery in Trier.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, another of the city’s underrated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Rheinaue, an idyllic place of interest in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. 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 Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne 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 Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Schildergasse, a must-see street in Cologne. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cologne Zoological Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking zoo before continuing your journey. Cologne Cathedral is your next stop. This famous church is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RheinZeit. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start by visiting Gasometer Oberhausen, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned park renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Duisburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Tiger & Turtle, a beloved art installation.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Suderman, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Dortmund. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a museum, a laser tag arena, a park, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day with a visit to Museum Folkwang. This intriguing museum is a must-visit in the city.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, an interesting museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Westfalenpark and Rombergpark Botanical Garden.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Coeur D'Artichaut is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Muenster. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Spitzner. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Eulen & Lerchen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The James offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Muenster.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!