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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Muenster, Nordkirchen, Bottrop, Feldhausen, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Sterkrade, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, Aachen, Koblenz, Keldung, Trier, Sosberg, Bonn, Cologne, Essen, and Dortmund.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Muenster, 2 nights in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Aachen, 1 night in Trier, 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Muenster, 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 Muenster, Nordkirchen, Bottrop, Feldhausen, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Sterkrade, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, Aachen, Koblenz, Keldung, Trier, Sosberg, Bonn, Cologne, Essen, and Dortmund, 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, accommodation, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Muenster - arrival day

  • Münster - Arrival day
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  • Schlossplatz
  • More

Welcome to Muenster, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Muenster's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Muenster 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 Schlossplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Muenster. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Ackermann, a popular restaurant in Muenster. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Muenster at Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Muenster tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Atelier, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Spooky's provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Muenster, Nordkirchen, Bottrop, Feldhausen, and Düsseldorf

  • Dusseldorf
  • Nordkirchen
  • Bottrop
  • More

Drive 185 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Schloss Nordkirchen
  • Tetraeder
  • Movie Park Germany
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Nordkirchen, Bottrop, and Feldhausen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Muenster, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Schloss Nordkirchen one of your first sightseeing stops in Nordkirchen. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,745 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bottrop. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Düsseldorf, 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Yoshi by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese, and sushi cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Düsseldorf is Le Flair, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious french, and contemporary menu.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Düsseldorf, Duisburg, and Sterkrade

  • Dusseldorf
  • Duisburg
  • Sterkrade
  • More

Drive 102 km, 2 hours 1 min

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Duisburg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Düsseldorf for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Duisburg, and Sterkrade to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Tiger & Turtle. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,871 reviews.

Next up is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Duisburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sterkrade. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gasometer Oberhausen. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,693 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Düsseldorf and your accommodation.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, 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 Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Studio 1. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Engel Rockbar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Düsseldorf, Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen

  • Aachen
  • Heisterbacherrott
  • Königswinter
  • Brühl
  • More

Drive 200 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Siebengebirge
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Phantasialand
  • Elisenbrunnen
  • Aachen Cathedral
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Heisterbacherrott, Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heisterbacherrott. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Siebengebirge. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,647 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Königswinter. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Schloss Drachenburg. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 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 Aachen. Aachen 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.

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

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, Kanpai Sushi beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Die Wg. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gin Library, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Domkeller provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Aachen, Koblenz, Keldung, and Trier

  • Trier
  • Koblenz
  • Keldung
  • More

Drive 308 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Deutsches Eck
  • Eltz Castle
  • Porta Nigra
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Koblenz, Keldung, and Trier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Trier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aachen and set your GPS to Koblenz. 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 1 hour 48 min. Upon reaching Koblenz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Deutsches Eck is a recommended place to visit. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Keldung. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Eltz Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

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

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Chrome!, known for its inviting atmosphere. Studio 11 Gbr is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Trier, Sosberg, Bonn, and Cologne

  • Cologne
  • Sosberg
  • Bonn
  • More

Drive 228 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Geierlay Suspension Bridge
  • House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany
  • Freizeitpark Rheinaue
  • More

On day 6 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 Sosberg, and Bonn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sosberg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Geierlay Suspension Bridge. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 17,187 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sosberg and set your GPS to Bonn. 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 1 hour 37 min. Upon reaching Bonn, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,753 reviews.

Next up is Gop Varieté-theater Bonn. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,250 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Rheinaue. This park has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,543 reviews.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french, and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern, and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

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

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Cologne

  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 9 km, 49 min

  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Cologne Zoological Garden one of your first sightseeing stops in Cologne. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Cologne Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 reviews. Up to 5,000,000 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Cologne special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Old Market. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 37,446 previous visitors.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Cologne, Essen, Dortmund, and Muenster

  • Münster
  • Essen
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 193 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • Museum Folkwang
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Westfalenpark
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

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

Set your GPS to Essen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Essen beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Folkwang. This art museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Essen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,999 visitors. Around 800,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Essen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dortmund may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Dortmund, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Westfalenpark your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,451 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Rombergpark Botanical Garden. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,572 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delectable modern french, and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Spitzner, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Muenster.

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.

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.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Muenster - departure day

  • Münster - Departure day
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  • Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
  • More

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

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Muenster’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,810 reviews.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Altes Gasthaus Leve, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kleiner Kiepenkerl is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Muenster. 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!

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