Cheap One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling west to Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Essen

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 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, and Feldhausen.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Muenster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nordkirchen may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Nordkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Nordkirchen, an often recommended castle known for its visually striking features.

After soaking in Nordkirchen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gelsenkirchen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Gelsenkirchen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Nordstern Park, a worthwhile park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Feldhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gelsenkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Feldhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Movie Park, an impressive amusement park in Feldhausen. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 3 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several an enchanting, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a sacred, a majestic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a romantic. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cologne Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey. Old Market is your next stop. This popular public square is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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

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.

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.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. 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 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Königswinter promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Brühl and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brühl beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Phantasialand. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the amusement park before you continue to your next stop.

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 Aachen may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Aachen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Aachen Cathedral, a captivating church that everyone visiting Aachen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Elisenbrunnen. This standout monument is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Düsseldorf. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Düsseldorf, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Düsseldorf 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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Düsseldorf — 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a palace, a public square, a park, an aquarium and much more! Start your day with a visit to Schloss Benrath. This well-known palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Burgplatz, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Hofgarten, one of the city’s most underrated park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Nord Park and Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Bar Studio 1 and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Sakura Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Engel Rockbar, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Krefeld, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Essen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Krefeld. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Krefeld, 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 Krefelder Zoo, a notable zoo that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oberhausen. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Gasometer Oberhausen, a notable museum that everyone visiting Oberhausen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Oberhausen 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 17 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Duisburg Zoo, another highlight in the city.

Essen 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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gentlem. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Diamond Cocktail Lounge, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Essen and Dortmund. You'll stay in Muenster for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Start by visiting Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking museum is sure to impress.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Essen by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum Folkwang. This heritage-rich museum is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dortmund. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Westfalenpark is a popular park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a serene botanical garden that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Muenster, 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Eulen & Lerchen. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The James offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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