Cheap 5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Dortmund. 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 2 nights.

Start your adventure at German Football Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Dortmund Zoo. This notable zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Casino Hohensyburg, where you can take in its instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Ready for day 3 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Cologne 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!

Set out on a day brimming with a photogenic, an awe-inspiring, a respected, a monumental, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. Start at the captivating Lindt Chocolate Museum, an instagrammable museum in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum and Cologne Cathedral, take time to explore Cologne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cologne Zoological Garden. This breathtaking zoo offers a unique experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Koblenz, 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 Cologne to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Deutsches Eck and explore the noteworthy features.

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.

Discover the heart of Cologne through its culinary scene, starting with Mongo's Restaurant Köln. 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore RheinZeit, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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.

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

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Dortmund, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Brühl, Königswinter, and Duisburg.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the photogenic features.

When you’ve had your share of Brühl, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Königswinter. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Head to Schloss Drachenburg, a popular castle in Königswinter. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Königswinter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Duisburg Zoo, an interesting zoo in Duisburg. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This well-known park is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Strobels Dortmund offers delicious bites without straining your wallet.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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