4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Essen and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Essen, and Cologne. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund and 1 night in Essen. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dortmund, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Essen, and Cologne, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Dortmund - arrival day
- Dortmund - Arrival day
- More
- Burg Hörde
- More
Welcome to Dortmund, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dortmund's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hörde or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Dortmund. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dortmund. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Meeting, die Café-Bar, an iconic dining spot in Dortmund. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zum Alten Markt, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ringhotel Drees, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Vater&sohn after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Loka Lounge Dortmund, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Dortmund and Essen
- Dortmund
- Essen
- More
Drive 45 km, 1 hour 20 min
- German Football Museum
- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
- Dortmund Zoo
- DASA Working World Exhibition
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Dortmund. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dortmund, including a museum, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Start your day at German Football Museum. This photogenic museum is a beloved place to see in Dortmund. Then, wander over to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dortmund Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is a favorite among visitors.
Dortmund offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dasa Working World Exhibition is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Essen's best restaurants.
Discover the culinary delights of Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Schote, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Südrock Rock Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gentlem offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Diamond Cocktail Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 3 – Essen, Cologne, and Dortmund
- Essen
- Cologne
- Dortmund
- More
Drive 175 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Cologne Cathedral
- Old Market
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- More
On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.
After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 53 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden, a captivating zoo that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cologne Cathedral, a grand church that stands out in the city. Next, visit Old Market, a locally renowned public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Lindt Chocolate Museum, a nearby museum, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gaststätte Lütge-eck stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 4 – Dortmund - departure day
- Dortmund - Departure day
- More
- Westfalenpark
- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
- More
Day 4 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dortmund, featuring a charming, a serene, a gorgeous, a visually striking, and a remarkable. Start at Westfalenpark, a popular park in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
Dine in style at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ALEX Dortmund boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.