Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund to Cologne, Düsseldorf, Essen, and Hamburg and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 3 nights. 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.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Zum Alten Markt, 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 Ringhotel Drees, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Visit Vater&sohn, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Loka Lounge Dortmund serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Dortmund. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Central Bar & More Dortmund.

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

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Dortmund. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Westfalenpark. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 visitors.

Next, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,572 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Phoenix-see. This lake is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,623 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit German Football Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,503 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,363 travelers.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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 exploring, unwind at the popular Strobels Dortmund, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Dortmund, Gaststätte Lütge-eck.

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

Day 3 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 Dortmund 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 Dortmund.

After soaking in Dortmund’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Delecke. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 47 min. When you arrive in Delecke, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mohne Dam. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Delecke, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,194 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Delecke, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hamm. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Maximilianpark Hamm. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamm, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,289 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hamm, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Essen may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Dortmund, 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 Café Brasserie Lotte, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? ALEX Dortmund offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund is the perfect spot for you!

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Wuppertal, Bonn, and Königswinter. You'll stay in Cologne for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Wuppertal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dortmund behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Wuppertal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Wuppertal, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,835 visitors.

Bonn’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Wuppertal behind. This drive usually takes around 59 min. Bonn welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,753 reviews.

Continue your journey at Rheinaue. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,543 travelers from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bonn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Schloss Drachenburg. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 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.

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.

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.

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

Ready for day 5 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 2 nights in this vibrant destination!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Koblenz. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Koblenz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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 18,566 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Deutsches Eck. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,555 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this headland every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Keldung. This car ride takes around 46 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Eltz Castle is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,367 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Schalkenmehren, 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 Schalkenmehren may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Schalkenmehren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Schalkenmehrener Maar. This maar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,188 visitors.

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.

Discover the heart of Cologne through its culinary scene, starting with Mongo's Restaurant Köln. 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 Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore RheinZeit, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Visit Soul Bar Cologne, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Cologne. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater.

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

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Germany. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Cologne and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Next up is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Cologne Cathedral welcomes 5,000,000 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Old Market. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Cologne. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Cologne offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Germany worth remembering for a lifetime.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Cologne, 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 Limani, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld is the perfect spot for you!

Visit Suderman, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

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 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Aachen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Düsseldorf, where you'll stay 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 Aachen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,979 visitors.

Next, make your way to Aachen Cathedral. This top attraction is an imperial cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,481 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,684 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Marktplatz Am Rathaus. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,596 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.

Savor the culinary delights of Düsseldorf, 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Engelchen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Cherie for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Auberge Rock Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 8 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 — Duisburg. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Essen, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

After soaking in Düsseldorf’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Krefeld-uerdinger-rheinbrücke. This steel bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 219 reviews.

Continue your journey at Tiger & Turtle. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,871 travelers from near and far.

Duisburg is also the home of Rheinpark Duisburg. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,138 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Lehmbruck Museum. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 828 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Museum Küppersmühle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,138 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this art museum.

Essen 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.

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, Essen 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 Mr. Nam 68, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Südrock Rock Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Gentlem is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 9 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Essen, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Essen, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 33 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rhine Orange. This landmark is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 641 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 visitors.

Kaiserberg is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,047 visitors.

Wambachsee is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This lake is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 155 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Sechs-seen-platte. This group of lakes has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,119 travelers.

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

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 Essen that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Banana Leaf, 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 Restaurant Artemis, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Metropol Café-bar Essen and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Temple Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Zum Pümpchen, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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!

Day 10 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Duisburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Hamburg, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Duisburg Inner Harbour. This extraordinary inland port has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,519 visitors.

Next, make your way to German Inland Waterways Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 979 reviews.

While in Duisburg, we also recommend a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Hochofen 5. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 623 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Duisburg.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Hamburg, 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 11 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Hamburg.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Planten Un Blomen. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

Continue your journey at Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 travelers from near and far.

Hamburg is also the home of Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79,037 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Miniatur Wunderland. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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 your preferred affordable place 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.

Start your foodie adventure at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to KLUBHAUS1249, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss AMI Restaurant, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dortmund.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 Atlantico Café, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. FOOD BROTHER is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Mama Mia, 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!