Cheap 6-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling west to Düsseldorf, and Essen

Day 2’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 1 night left in Cologne. 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 Cologne Zoological Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Cologne Cathedral. Cologne Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 reviews. Attracting more than 5,000,000 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Old Market is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

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.

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

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Cologne, Soul Bar Cologne. Alternatively, visit Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 3 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 — Aachen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Düsseldorf, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aachen, 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 Aachen may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Aachen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,979 reviews.

Next up is Aachen Cathedral. This imperial cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,481 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Elisenbrunnen. This drinking fountain has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,684 reviews.

Marktplatz Am Rathaus is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,596 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Engelchen stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Auberge Rock Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Burgplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,559 visitors.

Rheinpromenade is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,033 visitors.

Rheinturm is also highly recommended by travelers. This communication tower has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,916 visitors.

Hofgarten is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This english garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,488 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This zoo has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,678 travelers.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Essen, 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.

Mr. Nam 68 stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Südrock Rock Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gentlem, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Duisburg. You'll stay in Cologne for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 27 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 travelers.

Duisburg is also the home of Duisburg Inner Harbour. Around 5,519 people have rated this inland port an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Tiger & Turtle. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,871 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Duisburg is also your chance to admire Sechs-seen-platte. This must-visit group of lakes enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,119 reviews.

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.

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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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