Affordable One-Week Relaxed Germany Road Trip Vacation from Dortmund to Cologne

Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dortmund and begin your adventure in Germany.

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

One thing you have to know about Dortmund is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Dortmund.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Meeting, die Café-Bar, 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 Zum Alten Markt - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Ringhotel Drees promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Vater&sohn is an excellent example of a great bar in Dortmund offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Loka Lounge Dortmund, another of locals’ go-to bars in Dortmund. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Dortmund, Central Bar & More Dortmund is for you.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Germany! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Germany!

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Dortmund. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Westfalenpark. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,451 visitors.

Rombergpark Botanical Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,572 travelers.

Dortmund is also the home of Phoenix-see. Around 1,623 people have rated this lake an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Dortmund U-tower. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 2,626 reviews, a visit to this office building is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Dortmund is also your chance to admire German Football Museum. This must-visit sports museum enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,503 reviews.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

A cheap, budget vacation in Dortmund should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Dortmund, try some of our top recommendations.

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

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Dortmund, Gaststätte Lütge-eck.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Germany! Make every second of your affordable travels in Dortmund count!

On day 3 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Dortmund, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Dortmund, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Bochum’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dortmund behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Bochum welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum one of your first sightseeing stops in Bochum. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,848 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

+ Fossilium Bochum Zoo 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 9,697 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Bochum Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,787 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to German Mining Museum. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 7,193 previous visitors.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, ALEX Dortmund is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Germany! Make every second of your affordable travels in Dortmund count!

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Duisburg, and Düsseldorf. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Dortmund to Duisburg may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Continue your journey at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 travelers from near and far.

Duisburg is also the home of Tiger & Turtle. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,871 visitors.

Düsseldorf’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Duisburg behind. This drive usually takes around 25 min. Düsseldorf welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Hofgarten, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable english garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Rheinturm is a recommended place to visit. This communication tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,916 reviews.

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.

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 dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Cologne, The Grid Bar. Alternatively, visit Toddy Tapper, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Legends Bar & Terrasse, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

On day 5 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for another 2 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Keldung. This car ride takes around 1 hour 40 min.

Kick off the day at Eltz Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 48 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Deutsches Eck, a remarkable headland where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,555 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Braubach. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Marksburg your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this rocca an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

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

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 Mongo's Restaurant Köln, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss RheinZeit, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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.

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

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Germany. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Cologne and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

When you’re finished at Cologne Zoological Garden, head to Cologne Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. Every year, approximately 5,000,000 travelers come here to experience the catholic cathedral for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Old Market. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Cologne. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

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 a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Limani, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Visit Suderman, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

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

Day 7 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 3 wonderful destinations — Bonn, Brühl, and Solingen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bonn. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rheinaue. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,543 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bonn and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Phantasialand. Over 1,750,000 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brühl, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Solingen may take around 45 min. Upon your arrival in Solingen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Burg Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,193 reviews.

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.

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, Dortmund 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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is KLUBHAUS1249, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss AMI Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Germany.

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Germany as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Dortmund.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Dortmund’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dortmund or just grab something light to keep you going.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Dortmund, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Atlantico Café, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, FOOD BROTHER features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Mama Mia is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Germany!