Cheap 10-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling south to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Mainz, and Cologne

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Dortmund and begin your adventure in Germany.

Dortmund is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Dortmund is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Westfalenpark. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,451 reviews.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Dortmund, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Zum Alten Markt is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Ringhotel Drees, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Dortmund, Vater&sohn. Alternatively, visit Loka Lounge Dortmund, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Central Bar & More Dortmund, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Germany!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Dortmund. You'll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to German Football Museum. This extraordinary sports museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,503 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dasa Working World Exhibition. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,040 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Dortmund Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,732 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Casino Hohensyburg. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,302 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Düsseldorf. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Düsseldorf, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Düsseldorf has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Germany. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Germany!

On day 3 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Solingen. 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 Solingen, 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 Burg Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,193 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sterkrade, 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 Solingen to Sterkrade may take around 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sterkrade, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Gasometer Oberhausen. This extraordinary gas holder has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,693 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sterkrade and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Continue your journey at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 travelers from near and far.

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

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Düsseldorf offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Coffee Fellows.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Düsseldorf, Bar Studio 1. Sakura Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Engel Rockbar, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Germany. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Germany!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Aachen, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Aachen, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Düsseldorf, and Aachen.

Journey into the unknown at Hofgarten, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable english garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Schloss Benrath is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Aachen. 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 4 min. Upon reaching Aachen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Carolus Thermen, a remarkable spa where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,446 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,684 travelers.

Aachen Cathedral is another must-visit attraction. This renowned imperial cathedral offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,481 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Aachen has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Aachen on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Germany shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Aachen is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Café Middelberg, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Kanpai Sushi - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.

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

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Brühl, Königswinter, and Heisterbacherrott. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Mainz, where you'll 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 Brühl. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park gets 1,750,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Brühl Castle. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,548 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brühl, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Königswinter may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Königswinter, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Schloss Drachenburg, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

After soaking in Königswinter’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Heisterbacherrott. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Heisterbacherrott, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Siebengebirge. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Heisterbacherrott, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,647 visitors.

Mainz offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Germany. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Mainz should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Mainz, try some of our top recommendations.

NOLAN’S Irish Pub stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

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

A road trip vacation in Brühl can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Germany!

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Mainz, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Mainz, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Mannheim’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mainz behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Mannheim welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Watertower Of Mannheim. This water tower is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Mannheim, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,295 visitors.

Luisenpark is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,730 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mannheim and set your GPS to Speyer. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Speyer, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Speyer Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,279 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Technik Museum Speyer. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 24,541 reviews.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Mainz. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Café Nolda | Noldas Café und mehr offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Sixties. Or, try HANS IM GLÜCK Burgergrill, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Mainz!

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Mainz, Koblenz, and Keldung. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Mainz Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,317 visitors.

After soaking in Mainz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is a great place to start. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Deutsches Eck. This headland has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Koblenz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Keldung may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Keldung, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eltz Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,367 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Cologne. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Cologne, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Cologne. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Germany! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Cologne!

Ready for day 8 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Cologne and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 visitors.

Cologne Cathedral is another popular attraction you could visit today. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. Cologne Cathedral attracts up to 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bonn. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Rheinaue, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,543 reviews.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Cologne, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, RheinZeit is the perfect spot for you!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Cologne, Soul Bar Cologne. Alternatively, visit Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

A road trip vacation in Bonn can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Germany!

Day 9 of your road trip across Germany is another proof that cheap holidays in Germany can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Essen, and Gelsenkirchen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Essen. This drive usually takes around 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Museum Folkwang, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 800,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,999 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 reviews.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Shaft Xii. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,333 visitors.

Set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gelsenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Make Nordstern Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Gelsenkirchen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,453 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Dortmund has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Dortmund on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Dortmund offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Strobels Dortmund, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Dortmund!

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dortmund.

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

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dortmund is the remarkable Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,572 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Dortmund, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Café Brasserie Lotte, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, ALEX Dortmund features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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!