Cheap 11-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster traveling south to Essen, Düsseldorf, Mainz, and Cologne

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

Muenster is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Muenster 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Schlossplatz is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,366 visitors.

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

Start your foodie adventure at Restaurant Ackermann, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Atelier is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Spooky's, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Gelsenkirchen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Essen, 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 Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Nordkirchen. This extraordinary palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,745 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nordkirchen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Feldhausen. This drive usually takes around 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Movie Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Feldhausen. Rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 51,299 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

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. Essen has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Essen 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 Essen offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Mr. Nam 68, 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.

Keep the evening going at Südrock Rock Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gentlem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Diamond Cocktail Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 3 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Essen. You’ll stay in Essen 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 Essen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wuppertal. This drive usually takes around 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,835 visitors.

After soaking in Wuppertal’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sterkrade. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sea Life Oberhausen. This aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sterkrade, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 12,844 visitors.

Gasometer Oberhausen is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,693 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Essen, 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.

Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Banana Leaf. Or, try Restaurant Artemis, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Metropol Café-bar Essen, considered one of the best bars in Essen. You can also enjoy drinks at Temple Bar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Zum Pümpchen, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Essen.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Essen, and Bochum. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Essen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 visitors.

Shaft Xii is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,333 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bochum. This car ride takes around 23 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at German Mining Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,193 visitors.

When you’re finished at German Mining Museum, head to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This one-of-a-kind zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,697 reviews.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Ready for day 5 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Düsseldorf 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nord Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,034 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Schloss Benrath. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,705 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Düsseldorf to Duisburg may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

Duisburg is also the home of Tiger & Turtle. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,871 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, 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 Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Coffee Fellows, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Bar Studio 1 offer various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Sakura Bar is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Engel Rockbar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Keldung, and Koblenz. You'll stay in Mainz for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Keldung. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Keldung, 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 Eltz Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Koblenz, 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 Keldung to Koblenz may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Deutsches Eck, a remarkable headland where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 travelers.

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.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at NOLAN’S Irish Pub, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Wallenstein Cafe & Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Rheinstrand Mainz, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Nirgendwo provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 7 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 4 wonderful destinations — Mainz, Sosberg, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cologne, where you'll be spending 3 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.

Set your GPS to Sosberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sosberg beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Geierlay Suspension Bridge. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 17,187 reviews.

Ellenz-Poltersdorf’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sosberg behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Ellenz-Poltersdorf welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Metternich Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,499 reviews.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Cologne is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

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

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

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Cologne on day 8 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!

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schloss Drachenburg, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

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!

When you're ready to see some sights, Phantasialand is a great place to start. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Phantasialand attracts more than 1,750,000 visitors every year.

When you’ve had your share of Brühl, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aachen. Your travel time is around 46 min.

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 Aachen Cathedral. This imperial cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,481 travelers.

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

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Mongo's Restaurant Köln, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to RheinZeit.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Soul Bar Cologne, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you're ready to see some sights, Lindt Chocolate Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Old Market. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Cologne Cathedral. This site gets more than 5,000,000 visitors annually. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 reviews.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Cologne. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Germany by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Cologne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Discover the heart of Cologne through its culinary scene, starting with Limani. 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Suderman is an excellent example of a great bar in Cologne offering drinks at reasonable prices.

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

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

Set your GPS to Bonn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bonn beckons with new experiences!

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 point of interest 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.

Dortmund’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bonn behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. Dortmund welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,572 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Westfalenpark. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Eulen & Lerchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The James is another popular option for a drink or two.

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!

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 Muenster.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Muenster’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Muenster is the remarkable Rathausplatz Münster. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 243 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Muenster, consider a top-rated restaurant like Altes Gasthaus Leve, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Kleiner Kiepenkerl is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Rossini, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Muenster.

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!