Cheap 9-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Trier, Bernkastel-Kues, and Aachen and surrounding area

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

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Old Market. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,740 visitors.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Limani - 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Cologne, Toddy Tapper. Soul Bar Cologne is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Germany!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1: Cologne. You'll stay in Düsseldorf for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Düsseldorf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Each year, around 5,000,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Rheinpark. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,361 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,118 travelers.

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.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Brewery Schumacher, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Brewery im Füchschen is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to The ASH Düsseldorf.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Auberge Rock Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Engel Rockbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Day 3 means another chance to make the best memories in Duisburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Duisburg and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 2 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Hofgarten, a remarkable english garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,417 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Burgplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,480 travelers.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Duisburg. 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Düsseldorf, 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 Im Goldenen Kessel, 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 Konditorei Heinemann - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Sausalitos Dusseldorf promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

Day 4 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 Düsseldorf! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Düsseldorf and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Japanese Garden is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,001 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Nord Park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,892 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. The aquarium has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,180 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This sightseeing destination is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,759 reviews.

Schloss Benrath is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,559 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Germany. To have the best affordable travel experience in Germany, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Germany unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Germany.

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.

Discover the heart of Düsseldorf through its culinary scene, starting with Muggel. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Uerige, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore El Lazo, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Trier, Schalkenmehren, and Nürburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Trier, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Trier Amphitheater, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,829 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Porta Nigra. Porta Nigra is a city gate with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,367 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nürburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Schalkenmehren. This drive usually takes around 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Schalkenmehrener Maar, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This maar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,143 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Düsseldorf, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nürburg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 37 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nürburgring. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,289 reviews.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Trier has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Trier on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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 Trier offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

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

Keep the evening going at Chrome!, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Studio 11 GBR, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Simplicissimus, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Graach a der Mosel, Keldung, and Koblenz. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Bernkastel-Kues, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Graach a der Mosel.

Journey into the unknown at Zylinderhaus Museum für Oldtimer und Technik, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,350 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Trier, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Keldung. Your travel time is around 1 hour 33 min.

Journey into the unknown at Eltz Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,041 reviews.

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 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,199 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Deutsches Eck is a recommended place to visit. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,856 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Bernkastel-Kues. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Bernkastel-Kues, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

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

Discover the heart of Bernkastel-Kues through its culinary scene, starting with Burgruine Landshut. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, where time-honored recipes are served.

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

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 4 wonderful destinations — Klotten, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, Cochem, and Sosberg. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Aachen, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Cochem, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Klotten. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Drop by the renowned Doertebachtal. This popular naturschutzgebiet has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 250 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sosberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ellenz-Poltersdorf may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Ellenz-Poltersdorf, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Metternich castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,350 visitors.

After soaking in Ellenz-Poltersdorf’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cochem. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Cochem, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Reichsburg Cochem. This extraordinary hilltop castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 21,768 visitors.

Aachen 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.

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

Café Middelberg stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Kanpai Sushi offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Cafe Extrablatt Aachen, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Die WG is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Gin Library, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Domkeller. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Cologne, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Cologne, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Aachen and Brühl.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Aachen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Aachen Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this imperial cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,155 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Elisenbrunnen. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,568 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this drinking fountain every year.

Carolus Thermen is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This spa has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,303 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Brühl, 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 Aachen to Brühl may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Brühl Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,389 visitors.

Phantasialand is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This amusement park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 89,377 travelers. Up to 1,750,000 people visit Phantasialand every year.

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.

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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Servus Colonia Alpina is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Little Link, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cologne.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Cologne’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Germany. Keep the spirit of your trip to Germany alive with these special souvenirs.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Cologne, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Jameson Pub Cologne, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Barney Vallely's features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Gruber's is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!