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

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Düsseldorf and begin your adventure in Germany.

Düsseldorf is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Düsseldorf 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.

Kick off the day at Hofgarten, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This english garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,488 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Brewery Schumacher, 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 Brewery im Füchschen - 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 The ASH Düsseldorf, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Engelchen is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Bar Cherie 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 Auberge Rock Pub, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience 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 2 nights. On your way to Cologne, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Düsseldorf.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,015 visitors.

Next, make your way to Japanese Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,176 reviews.

While in Düsseldorf, we also recommend a visit to Nord Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,034 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,358 travelers, this aquarium is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Düsseldorf.

Make your way to Schloss Benrath, perhaps the most famous park in Düsseldorf. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Germany, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Make Lindt Chocolate Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Cologne Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this catholic cathedral every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 5,000,000 annual visitors.

Cologne Zoological Garden is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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 for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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.

Mongo's Restaurant Köln offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами". Or, try RheinZeit, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable 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.

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

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

Set your GPS to Essen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Essen beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 visitors.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Continue your journey at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 travelers from near and far.

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.

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

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Studio 1 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sakura Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Düsseldorf.

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 Düsseldorf is the remarkable Burgplatz. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,559 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Düsseldorf, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Im Goldenen Kessel, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Konditorei Heinemann features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Sausalitos Dusseldorf is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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!