Cheap 9-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling west to Essen, and Cologne

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 2 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Westfalenpark. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,451 visitors.

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Zum Alten Markt, 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 Ringhotel Drees, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Dortmund. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dortmund and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Kick off the day at German Football Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sports museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,503 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Dortmund U-tower. Dortmund U-tower is an office building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,626 reviews.

Steinwache is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This memorial is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 239 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Dortmund Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,732 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.

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. Dortmund has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Strobels Dortmund, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Dortmund, Gaststätte Lütge-eck.

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

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Bottrop. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Essen, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Nordkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nordkirchen beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Schloss Nordkirchen. This much-appreciated palace is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,745 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nordkirchen and set your GPS to Feldhausen. 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 55 min. Upon reaching Feldhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Movie Park. This amusement park is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 51,299 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Feldhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bottrop. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Tetrahedron In Bottrop. This much-appreciated sculpture is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,750 reviews.

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.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Essen. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Mr. Nam 68, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await.

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!

Ready for day 4 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Essen 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 2 nights in this vibrant destination!

Journey into the unknown at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,211 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bochum. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Journey into the unknown at + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,697 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, German Mining Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,193 reviews.

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

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Banana Leaf is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurant Artemis.

Metropol Café-bar Essen offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Essen, check out Temple Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Zum Pümpchen.

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

Day 5 of your exciting road trip across Germany is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Essen and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Essen.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rubbelrath. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Hotel Schloss Dyck, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,896 reviews.

Wuppertal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rubbelrath behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Wuppertal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,835 reviews.

Set your GPS to Solingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Solingen beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Burg Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,193 visitors.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Essen. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Start your flavor-filled journey at SAUSALITOS, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurant tablo offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Rosemarie Garten & Bar is the perfect spot for you!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Essen, Café Goldbar. Alternatively, visit Cafe Nord, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Louis Café & Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 6 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 2 wonderful destinations — Duisburg, and Düsseldorf. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cologne, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 travelers.

Tiger & Turtle is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,871 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Set your GPS to Düsseldorf and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Düsseldorf beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Hofgarten is a great place to start. This english garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,488 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Schloss Benrath. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,705 travelers.

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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Grid Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Toddy Tapper, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 7 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Cologne, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Make Lindt Chocolate Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Old Market. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Cologne Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Up to 5,000,000 travelers come to Cologne every year to see Cologne Cathedral with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Cologne Cathedral, the perfect next stop is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

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.

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.

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 Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" - 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 RheinZeit, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Dortmund, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Brühl, Königswinter, and Heisterbacherrott.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brühl. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Brühl, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Around 1,750,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Brühl Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,548 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brühl, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Schloss Drachenburg, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

Set your GPS to Heisterbacherrott and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heisterbacherrott beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Siebengebirge. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,647 visitors.

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

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

Café Brasserie Lotte 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, ALEX Dortmund offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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 Dortmund.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Dortmund’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dortmund is the remarkable Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,572 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Dortmund, consider a top-rated restaurant like Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. KLUBHAUS1249 is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is AMI Restaurant, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Dortmund.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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!