Cheap 11-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne, Trier, and Düsseldorf

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.

Journey into the unknown at Hörde, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable ortsteil has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 700 reviews.

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

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

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Vater&Sohn, considered one of the best bars in Dortmund. You can also enjoy drinks at CENTRAL Bar & More Dortmund, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Gaststätte Lütge-Eck, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Dortmund.

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

Day 2 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 1 wonderful destinations — Dortmund. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cologne, where you'll be spending 5 nights.

Take the opportunity to see German Football Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,349 visitors.

DASA Working World Exhibition is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,010 travelers.

Dortmund is also the home of Rombergpark Botanical Garden. Around 6,482 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Dortmund Zoo. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from a total of 15,486 reviews, a visit to this zoo is a great idea.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Mongo's Restaurant Köln, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Limani - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Keep the evening going at Toddy Tapper, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Soul Bar Cologne, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Ready for day 3 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 4 nights in this vibrant destination!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bonn, 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 Cologne to Bonn may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bonn, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,523 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Rheinaue. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,226 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Heisterbacherrott, 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 Heisterbacherrott may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Heisterbacherrott, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Siebengebirge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,644 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 17,280 visitors.

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

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

Bangkok Thai Restaurant stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Servus Colonia Alpina offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Little Link, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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 4 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 3 nights left in Cologne, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Solingen. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Burg Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,009 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Solingen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wuppertal. This drive usually takes around 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,627 visitors.

Set your GPS to Sterkrade and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sterkrade beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Gasometer Oberhausen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,121 reviews.

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

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

Discover the heart of Cologne through its culinary scene, starting with Jameson Pub Cologne. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Barney Vallely's, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Gruber's, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Cologne on day 5 of your affordable vacation in Germany. You’ll continue your stay in Cologne for an additional 2 nights. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

After soaking in Cologne’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 19 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Ehrenbreitstein Fortress your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,199 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Deutsches Eck. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,856 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this headland every year.

After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Keldung. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Keldung, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Eltz Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Keldung. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,041 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Peters Brauhaus, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Gaststätte Lommerzheim is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Craftbeer Corner Coeln.

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

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Daun. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Wildlife and adventure park Daun is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,851 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Daun, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schalkenmehren may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Schalkenmehren, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Schalkenmehrener Maar. This maar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,143 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Schalkenmehren and set your GPS to Nürburg. 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 27 min. Upon reaching Nürburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Nürburgring one of your first sightseeing stops in Nürburg. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 35,289 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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, Cologne 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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Max Stark, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, The Little Steakhouse is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Gilden im Zims, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Germany!

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1: Cologne. You'll stay in Trier for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Cologne Chocolate Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,704 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Old Market. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,740 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Cologne Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Up to 5,000,000 travelers come to Cologne every year to see Cologne Cathedral with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Cologne Cathedral, the perfect next stop is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Trier, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Restaurant Kartoffel Kiste stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Restaurant Brasserie offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Restaurant Monte Petris, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Chrome!, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Studio 11 GBR offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Trier. Simplicissimus is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Ellenz-Poltersdorf, Cochem, and Brühl. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Ellenz-Poltersdorf and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ellenz-Poltersdorf beckons with new experiences!

Make Metternich castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,350 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cochem. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Reichsburg Cochem. This extraordinary hilltop castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 21,768 visitors.

After soaking in Cochem’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brühl. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 27 min. When you arrive in Brühl, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Brühl Castle. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Brühl, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,389 visitors.

Phantasialand is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 89,377 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 1,750,000 people visit this amusement park every year.

Düsseldorf 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.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Brewery Schumacher, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Brewery im Füchschen offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, The ASH Düsseldorf is the perfect spot for you!

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Auberge Rock Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Engel Rockbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Day 9 of your exciting road trip across Germany is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Düsseldorf and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Düsseldorf.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,759 visitors.

Next, make your way to Schloss Benrath. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,559 reviews.

Aachen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. Aachen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Aachen Cathedral. This extraordinary imperial cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,155 visitors.

Next, make your way to Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,568 reviews.

While in Aachen, we also recommend a visit to Carolus Thermen. This spa has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,303 reviews.

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

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Konditorei Heinemann, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Sausalitos Dusseldorf, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Dortmund, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Duisburg and Essen.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf 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 31 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,129 visitors.

When you’re finished at Duisburg Zoo, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Duisburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Essen. Your travel time is around 22 min.

Drop by the renowned LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,908 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,866 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, ALEX Dortmund is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Germany!

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dortmund.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Dortmund’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Take home a piece of Germany with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dortmund is the remarkable Westfalenpark. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,165 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Dortmund, consider a top-rated restaurant like KLUBHAUS1249, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Atlantico Café is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is FOOD BROTHER, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Dortmund.

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!