Cheap 13-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.

Drop by the renowned Westfalenpark. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 visitors.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Dortmund, 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Meeting, die Café-Bar, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Zum Alten Markt offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Ringhotel Drees is the perfect spot for you!

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.

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 5 nights.

Take the opportunity to see German Football Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,503 visitors.

Dortmund U-tower is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This office building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,626 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.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 Cologne on day 3 of your affordable vacation in Germany. You’ll continue your stay in Cologne for an additional 4 nights. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Krefeld. Your travel time is around 51 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Krefelder Zoo. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,846 visitors.

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 34 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sea Life Oberhausen is a great place to start. This aquarium is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 12,844 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Gasometer Oberhausen. This gas holder has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,693 travelers.

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

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.

Mongo's Restaurant Köln 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, Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at RheinZeit, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Soul Bar Cologne is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln 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 Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 4’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 3 nights left in Cologne. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Lindt Chocolate Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Market. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

While in Cologne, we also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting around 5,000,000 visitors every year, Cologne Cathedral is one of the best places to visit. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers, this zoo is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Cologne.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Germany. To have the best affordable travel experience in Germany, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Germany unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Germany.

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.

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 a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day.

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

On day 5 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Bonn. 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 32 min. Upon reaching Bonn, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Rheinaue is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,543 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Gop Varieté-theater Bonn. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,250 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. The museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,753 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bonn and set your GPS to Königswinter. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

When you’ve had your share of Königswinter, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brühl. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Journey into the unknown at Phantasialand, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 reviews. Every year, Phantasialand welcomes more than 1,750,000 curious visitors.

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

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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Cafe Riese Köln, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Bangkok Thai Restaurant is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Servus Colonia Alpina, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Cologne, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Neuwied. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Zoo Neuwied. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,848 visitors.

Set your GPS to Alken and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alken beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Thurant Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,266 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Eltz Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Em Krützche, 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 Délirium Café Cologne - 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 Little Link, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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 cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Koblenz, and Trier. You'll stay in Bernkastel-Kues for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Set your GPS to Koblenz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Koblenz beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Deutsches Eck is a recommended place to visit. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Trier. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Porta Nigra. This popular city gate has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,950 visitors.

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

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, Bernkastel-Kues 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 town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Burgruine Landshut 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, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 50 min.

Drop by the renowned Paradeplatz. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 7,701 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Watertower Of Mannheim. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,295 visitors, this water tower deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Luisenpark. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,730 reviews.

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.

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

Altes Brauhaus offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub.

Continue your lively evening at Spökes, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dubai Shisha Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Düsseldorf, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Düsseldorf, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Aachen.

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 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rosenquelle. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 210 visitors.

Next, make your way to Aachen Cathedral. This imperial cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,481 reviews.

While in Aachen, we also recommend a visit to Katschhof. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,110 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Elisenbrunnen. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,684 travelers, this drinking fountain is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Aachen.

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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Engelchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cherie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub 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 road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Düsseldorf, and Duisburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Essen, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Rheinpromenade. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,033 reviews.

Next up is Burgplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,559 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Hofgarten. This english garden has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,488 reviews.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

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.

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.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Essen. 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 Mr. Nam 68, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Südrock Rock Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gentlem, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Ready for day 11 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Essen and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, 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 21,243 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bochum, 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 Essen to Bochum may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bochum, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,697 reviews.

Continue your journey at Bochum Park. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,787 travelers from near and far.

Bochum is also the home of German Mining Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,193 visitors.

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

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

Discover the heart of Essen through its culinary scene, starting with Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein. 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 Banana Leaf, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant Artemis, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Metropol Café-bar Essen offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Essen, check out Temple Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Zum Pümpchen.

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

Day 12 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 — Gelsenkirchen, Bottrop, and Feldhausen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

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 Essen to Gelsenkirchen may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gelsenkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Nordstern Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,453 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bottrop. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Tetrahedron In Bottrop. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,750 visitors.

Feldhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bottrop behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Feldhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Movie Park, a remarkable amusement park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 51,299 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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Strobels Dortmund, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gaststätte Lütge-eck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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 13 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dortmund.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Dortmund’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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!