9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling south to Essen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, 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 Essen. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Muenster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nordkirchen may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Nordkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Nordkirchen, an often recommended castle known for its visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Feldhausen. This car ride takes around 55 min.

Head to Movie Park, an extraordinary amusement park in Feldhausen. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Feldhausen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gelsenkirchen may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Gelsenkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Nordstern Park, an up-and-coming park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, 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 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hannappel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Schote, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional austrian and french contemporary menu.

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.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Essen. You’ll stay in Essen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a laser tag arena, and a park. Start your adventure at Shaft Xii. This often recommended museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museum Folkwang. This curiosity-inducing museum offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Gleispark Frintrop. This stunning park offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Banana Leaf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Artemis is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Essen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Metropol Café-bar Essen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Temple Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zum Pümpchen, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 4 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 Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Wuppertal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. Wuppertal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal and explore the stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Wuppertal, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Oberhausen. This drive usually takes around 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Gasometer Oberhausen and explore the picture-perfect features.

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 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a notable park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Duisburg Zoo, where you can soak in the gorgeous surroundings.

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

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, 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.

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.

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

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

Day 5 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aquarium, a park, a botanical garden, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This is a well-known aquarium you should not miss. Another must-see is Nord Park, a locally appreciated park in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Japanese Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Hofgarten, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a visually striking palace. Schloss Benrath is a truly remarkable place to visit in Düsseldorf.

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.

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, 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.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Coffee Fellows. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to leisurely explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Old Market, an enchanting public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral, a spectacular church.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Bochum 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bochum. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, an underrated zoo in Bochum. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Bochum Park. This frequently visited park is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, German Mining Museum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most photogenic museum in the region.

Set your GPS to Dortmund and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dortmund beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Westfalenpark, a notable park that everyone visiting Dortmund should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule in Muenster by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Coeur D'Artichaut, acclaimed for its delectable modern french and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Spitzner, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Eulen & Lerchen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The James for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Muenster and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!