Affordable 13-Day Relaxed Germany Road Trip Vacation from Dortmund to Cologne, and Hamburg

Your relaxed 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.

One thing you have to know about Dortmund is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Dortmund.

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.

Meeting, die Café-Bar offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Zum Alten Markt. Or, try Ringhotel Drees, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Vater&sohn and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Loka Lounge Dortmund 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 Central Bar & More Dortmund, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Germany! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Germany!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Cologne, where you'll be staying for 5 nights. On your way to Cologne, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Dortmund.

Make Westfalenpark one of your first sightseeing stops in Dortmund. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Rombergpark Botanical Garden is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,572 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Phoenix-see. This lake has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,623 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to German Football Museum. A trip to this popular sports museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 6,503 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. This museum enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,363 local and international travelers.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cologne, 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.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at The Grid Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Toddy Tapper 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 Legends Bar & Terrasse, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Germany!

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 4 nights left in Cologne. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Vorgebirgspark. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,488 reviews.

Rhine Garden Sculpture is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,820 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. Every year, around 5,000,000 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Museum Ludwig is another outstanding experience in Cologne. Around 7,470 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 304,942 visitors annually.

If you long for more, Old Market is not far away. This point of interest is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cologne, 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 of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", 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 RheinZeit, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Soul Bar Cologne offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Cologne, check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater.

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

On day 4 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Cologne — 3 nights.

Drop by the renowned Japanese Garden Leverkusen. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,239 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Cologne Zoological Garden. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors, this zoo deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Fish Market. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,803 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 local and international travelers.

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.

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.

Limani 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, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, 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 Cologne, Suderman.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Germany!

Day 5 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 Rheinboulevard. This promenade is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,235 travelers from near and far.

Cologne is also the home of Deutz Suspension Bridge. This suspension bridge has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 806 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Wallraf–richartz Museum. A total of 153,566 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,793 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Kolumba. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,211 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this diocesan museum.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Cologne, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Cologne and the culture of past or present-day Germany.

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

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Germany! Make every second of your affordable travels in Cologne count!

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

Drop by the renowned Klettenberg Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 975 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Beethoven Park. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,739 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Am Hornpottweg. This naturschutzgebiet has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 387 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Wildlife Park Dünnwald. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,334 local and international travelers.

Set your GPS to Höningen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Höningen beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Äußerer Grüngürtel, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,024 reviews.

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

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Em Krützche, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Délirium Café Cologne is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Little Link.

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

Day 7 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 5 nights.

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 Duisburg may take around 52 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Duisburg Inner Harbour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,519 visitors, this inland port deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, considered one of the best bars in Hamburg. You can also enjoy drinks at Scandic Hamburg Emporio, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Hamburg.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Germany! Make every second of your affordable travels in Hamburg count!

Day 8 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Hamburg, with 4 nights to stay in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Elbe Tunnel, a remarkable road tunnel where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,850 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Hamburg Harbor. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,017 travelers.

St. Michael's Church is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Miniatur Wunderland. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 89,283 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Hamburg Dungeon awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a museum, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 previous visitors.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Germany sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Germany. Germany has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Germany that will fill you with new inspiration.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to NOM vietnamese fusion food, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Visit Cafe Miller, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Copa Cabana Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Hamburg. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Fontenay Bar.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Germany.

Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in Hamburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wasserpark Dove-elbe. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,160 visitors.

International Maritime Museum Hamburg is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,372 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Deichtorhallen. Visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,573 reviews.

Speicherstadt is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a warehouse district rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,068 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Elbe Philharmonic Hall, perhaps the most famous concert hall in Hamburg. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 79,037 travelers.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Hamburg. 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.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Edelcurry, 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 Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Deichgraf Restaurant promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Tower Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Black Forest Bar - By Henn is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Ciu` Die Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Germany.

Day 10’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Hamburg. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Kick off the day at Alsterfontaine, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,025 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Chilehaus. Chilehaus is an office building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,378 reviews.

Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,487 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Hamburger Kunsthalle. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,902 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Stadtpark, a famous park in Hamburg. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,877 travelers.

Your discovery of Hamburg does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Hamburg 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 Hamburg, 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 Brücke 10, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Shiso Burger Hamburg offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof is the perfect spot for you!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Meyer Lansky's, considered one of the best bars in Hamburg. You can also enjoy drinks at The Chug Club, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Hamburg.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Germany! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Hamburg!

On day 11 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Hamburg and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Hamburg — 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Alsterarkaden. This extraordinary street is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,676 visitors.

Next, make your way to Hamburg Townhall. This top attraction is a city hall with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,325 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to St. Nikolai Memorial. This church is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,254 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Museum Für Hamburgische Geschichte. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,543 travelers. Around 61,790 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Planten Un Blomen. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 travelers.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

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, Hamburg 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.

Das Feuerschiff LV 13 offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Radisson Blu Hotel, Hamburg. Or, try Hotel Hafen Hamburg, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Bar Dacaio Hamburg is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Café May is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Jahreszeiten Bar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Germany!

On day 12 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Bad Fallingbostel, and Hanover. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Lüneburg Heath Nature Park is a great place to start. This naturpark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,513 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Hanover. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Hanover Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,161 visitors.

Herrenhausen Gardens is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 travelers.

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.

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

Strobels Dortmund stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Visit Gaststätte Lütge-eck, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Germany! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Dortmund!

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Germany as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 13 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in 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.

Unwind and look back at the past 13 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dortmund or just grab something light to keep you going.

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 and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Germany!