Cheap 6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Dortmund. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Dortmund covers several incredible sights, including a museum, an art installation, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at German Football Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Dortmund U-tower, a must-see art installation in the city.

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 Rombergpark Botanical Garden, where you can take in its peaceful features.

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.

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 Cologne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 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 2 nights 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a museum, a church, and a zoo. Start your day at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is a locally renowned place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If grand sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cologne Zoological Garden. This picture-perfect zoo is a favorite among visitors.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brühl. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Brühl, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Cologne is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

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

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Soul Bar Cologne, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Ready for day 4 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!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is a locally renowned castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Deutsches Eck, an awe-inspiring monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Keldung. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Keldung, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Eltz Castle, an interesting castle known for its respected features.

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

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.

Start your foodie adventure at Limani, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Duisburg and Essen. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, 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 52 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Duisburg Zoo, a captivating zoo in Duisburg. Explore its stunning 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Duisburg and set your GPS to Essen. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a worthwhile laser tag arena that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-listed surroundings.

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

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

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its lively atmosphere.

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