10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Essen

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

Get ready for an exciting day in Dortmund. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, an art installation, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at German Football Museum. This is an often recommended museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Dortmund U-tower, a frequently visited art installation in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dortmund Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, another of the city’s underrated attractions.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Grid Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Toddy Tapper, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 3 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.

Set out on a day brimming with a stunning, a photogenic, a standout, an inviting, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a charming. Start at the popular Cologne Zoological Garden, a picture-perfect zoo in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Cologne Zoological Garden and Cologne Cathedral, take time to explore Cologne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Old Market. This awe-inspiring public square offers a unique experience. Lindt Chocolate Museum is another noteworthy stop.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bonn, Königswinter, and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bonn may take around 35 min. Upon your arrival in Bonn, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a locally renowned museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, a visually striking performing arts theater that stands out in the city. Next, visit Rheinaue, a popular park that offers a unique experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Königswinter, 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 Bonn to Königswinter may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Königswinter, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Drachenburg, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Königswinter should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Set your GPS to Brühl and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brühl beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Phantasialand. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the amusement park before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of a photogenic, a charming, a scenic, an awe-inspiring, a detailed, and a standout. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This locally renowned aquarium is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Nord Park, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Japanese Garden, one of the most often recommended places to see in Düsseldorf. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this boardwalk offers. Finally, take the path to the captivating Schloss Benrath, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Coffee Fellows. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Studio 1 stand out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Engel Rockbar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including a boardwalk and a public square. Start your adventure at Rheinpromenade. This often recommended boardwalk is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Burgplatz located in Düsseldorf for an enchanting atmosphere.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Duisburg Zoo and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another highlight in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!