Cheap 5-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, 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 Cologne, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Make Rheinpark one of your first sightseeing stops in Cologne. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,479 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Cologne Zoological Garden is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This zoo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Up to 5,000,000 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 37,446 previous visitors.

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 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.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Soul Bar Cologne, considered one of the best bars in Cologne. You can also enjoy drinks at Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Cologne.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bonn, Königswinter, Sterkrade, and Essen. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Rheinaue. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,543 visitors.

Set your GPS to Königswinter and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Königswinter beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Schloss Drachenburg. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sterkrade, 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 Königswinter to Sterkrade may take around 1 hour 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sterkrade, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Gasometer Oberhausen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,693 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.

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, Düsseldorf 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.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Engelchen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Cherie, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Auberge Rock Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Duisburg, and Brühl. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Düsseldorf, 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 30 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Tiger & Turtle. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Duisburg, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,871 visitors.

Duisburg Inner Harbour is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,519 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Duisburg Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Duisburg behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Each year, around 1,750,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Limani, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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