Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne, Bernkastel-Kues, Koblenz, Düsseldorf, and Essen

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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Westfalenpark is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 visitors.

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 exploring, unwind at the popular Meeting, die Café-Bar, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Zum Alten Markt is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Ringhotel Drees.

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 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 3 nights.

Take the opportunity to see St. Reinoldi. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,508 visitors.

German Football Museum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sports museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,503 travelers.

Dortmund is also the home of Dortmund Zoo. Around 15,732 people have rated this zoo an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

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 lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 3 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 2 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Set your GPS to Cochem and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cochem beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Reichsburg Cochem. This extraordinary hilltop castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,257 visitors.

Bonn’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cochem behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. Bonn welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Koenig Bonn. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,647 visitors.

House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,753 visitors.

Rheinaue is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,543 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.

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!

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Soul Bar Cologne and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln 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 Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 4 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!

Journey into the unknown at Lindt Chocolate Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Old Market is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cologne is Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular catholic cathedral gets over 5,000,000 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cologne offers an experience you will remember.

Cologne Zoological Garden is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Cologne. This zoo promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Touring the best attractions in Germany offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Germany you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Germany. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Germany.

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. Cologne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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 5 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Glees, Keldung, Alken, and Sosberg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bernkastel-Kues, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glees. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Glees, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Maria Laach Abbey your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this monastery an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,805 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Keldung. This car ride takes around 44 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Eltz Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,367 visitors.

Set your GPS to Alken and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alken beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Thurant Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,266 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Bernkastel-Kues. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Bernkastel-Kues, 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. Bernkastel-Kues has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Burgruine Landshut, 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 Restaurant Alt Bernkastel - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Koblenz, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Koblenz, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Trier, Neuwied, and Koblenz.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Trier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuwied may take around 1 hour 28 min. Upon your arrival in Neuwied, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Porta Nigra. This city gate is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,950 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Trier and set your GPS to Neuwied. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Neuwied, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Zoo Neuwied your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,848 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Neuwied, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Koblenz. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This extraordinary fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 visitors.

Next, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This top attraction is a headland with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,555 visitors.

Koblenz 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.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Altes Brauhaus, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub is another must-visit dining spot.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Spökes offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dubai Shisha Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Excalibur - The Rock Cafe is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Königswinter, Brühl, and 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 2 nights.

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

Drop by the renowned Schloss Drachenburg. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Königswinter, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Brühl, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Around 1,750,000 people visit this attraction every year.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aachen Cathedral. This much-appreciated imperial cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,481 reviews.

Next up is Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,684 visitors.

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

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 Düsseldorf on day 8 of your affordable vacation in Germany. You’ll continue your stay in Düsseldorf for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hofgarten. This extraordinary english garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,488 visitors.

Next, make your way to Burgplatz. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,559 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Schloss Benrath. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,705 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.

Next, make your way to Duisburg Zoo. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 visitors.

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

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

Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf 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, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Coffee Fellows, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Visit Bar Studio 1, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Sakura Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Düsseldorf. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Engel Rockbar.

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

On day 9 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Krefeld, and Sterkrade. You'll stay in Essen for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Krefeld. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Krefelder Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,846 reviews.

After soaking in Krefeld’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 35 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Gasometer Oberhausen is a great place to start. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,693 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sea Life Oberhausen. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 12,844 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Essen. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Essen, 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 Essen offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Mr. Nam 68, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Südrock Rock Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gentlem provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 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 Essen 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 Essen.

Make Unesco-welterbe Zollverein your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,211 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,697 reviews.

German Mining Museum is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,193 reviews.

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

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.

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

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Essen, Metropol Café-bar Essen. Temple 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 Zum Pümpchen, 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 11 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 3 wonderful destinations — Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Gelsenkirchen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Nordkirchen. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Nordkirchen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schloss Nordkirchen, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,745 reviews.

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

Drop by the renowned Movie Park. This popular amusement park has been rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 51,299 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gelsenkirchen, 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 Feldhausen to Gelsenkirchen may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gelsenkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Nordstern Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,453 reviews.

Dortmund 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 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 foodie adventure at Strobels Dortmund, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dortmund’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in 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!