Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster traveling south to Essen, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Koblenz, 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.

Drop by the renowned Schlossplatz. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,366 visitors.

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

Restaurant Ackermann 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, Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Muenster, Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt. Alternatively, visit Atelier, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Spooky's, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Muenster, Nordkirchen, and Feldhausen. You'll stay in Essen for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,810 reviews.

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 39 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nordkirchen and set your GPS to Feldhausen. 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 55 min. Upon reaching Feldhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Movie Park. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 51,299 reviews.

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.

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

Discover the heart of Essen through its culinary scene, starting with Mr. Nam 68. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings.

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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Solingen. This car ride takes around 52 min.

Take the opportunity to see Burg Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,193 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Wuppertal, 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 Solingen to Wuppertal may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Wuppertal, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal one of your first sightseeing stops in Wuppertal. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,835 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Gasometer Oberhausen. This extraordinary gas holder has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,693 visitors.

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

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Banana Leaf is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurant Artemis.

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.

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

Day 4 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 2 wonderful destinations — Essen, and Duisburg. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Düsseldorf, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,211 travelers.

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Duisburg Zoo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 reviews.

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.

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 meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Engelchen, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub 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!

Day 5 means another chance to make the best memories in Düsseldorf. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Düsseldorf 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, Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is a great place to start. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,358 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Rheinpromenade. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,033 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Burgplatz. The square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,559 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This point of interest is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,015 reviews.

Schloss Benrath is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Your discovery of Düsseldorf does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Düsseldorf on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Germany.

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.

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!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Düsseldorf, Bar Studio 1. Alternatively, visit Sakura Bar, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Engel Rockbar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

On day 6 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 Aachen, 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 Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Schloss Drachenburg, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable château has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,667 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 42 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Phantasialand. This amusement park typically receives around 1,750,000 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

Aachen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brühl behind. This drive usually takes around 55 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 15,481 visitors.

Next, make your way to Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,684 reviews.

While in Aachen, we also recommend a visit to Marktplatz Am Rathaus. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,596 reviews.

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

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Café Middelberg, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Kanpai Sushi offers delightful dishes and desserts.

Continue your lively evening at Die Wg, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Gin Library is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Domkeller ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Koblenz, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Koblenz, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Bonn, and Cochem.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bonn. This car ride takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,753 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Gop Varieté-theater Bonn. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,250 travelers.

Rheinaue is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,543 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Set your GPS to Cochem and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cochem beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Reichsburg Cochem. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,257 visitors.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Koblenz, 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.

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.

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

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Koblenz on day 8 of your affordable vacation in Germany. You’ll continue your stay in Koblenz for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königstein im Taunus. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Opel Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,479 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Königstein im Taunus, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bad Homburg. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kurpark Bad Homburg. This spa park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,116 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bad Homburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Obernhain may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Obernhain, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Hessenpark, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This open-air museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,400 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Saalburg. Saalburg is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,443 reviews.

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

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.

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

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Koblenz, Keldung, and Sosberg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Keldung, 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 Koblenz to Keldung may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Eltz Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Keldung, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,367 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Keldung, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sosberg may take around 59 min. Upon your arrival in Sosberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Geierlay Suspension Bridge. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 17,187 visitors.

Cologne 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.

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.

A road trip vacation in Koblenz 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 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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Rheinpark. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,479 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers from near and far.

Cologne is also the home of Museum Ludwig. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,470 visitors. Each year, around 304,942 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Cologne Cathedral. A total of 5,000,000 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

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.

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 Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, RheinZeit promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Cologne, Soul Bar Cologne. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln 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 Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Cologne, and Dortmund. You'll stay in Muenster for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Old Market, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Wallraf–richartz Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,793 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 153,566 people visit it every year.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dortmund may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Dortmund, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,572 visitors.

Westfalenpark is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,451 visitors.

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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Eulen & Lerchen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The James, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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 Muenster.

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

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!