5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne and Cochem

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Description

Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau. 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, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Cochem. 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. Marvel at the remarkable Deutsches Eck, learn more about the unique Porta Nigra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Reichsburg Cochem.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
RheinboulevardCologne Chocolate MuseumCologne CathedralBeethoven-Haus BonnBeethoven-Denkmal
Ehrenbreitstein FortressSeilbahn Koblenz - TalstationEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckCochem CastleHistorische Senfmühle Dehren GmbHPinnerkreuz
Liebfrauenkirche, TrierPorta NigraTrier AmphitheaterMonschau
Rombergpark Botanical Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dortmund, 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vater&sohn, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Loka Lounge Dortmund is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 164 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Rheinboulevard
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Beethoven-Haus Bonn
  • Beethoven-Denkmal
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Bonn, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Dortmund covers several incredible sights, including a boardwalk, a museum, a church, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Rheinboulevard. This underrated boardwalk is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Lindt Chocolate Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Beethoven-haus Bonn, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Beethoven-denkmal. This heritage-rich monument offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Cochem
  • More

Drive 174 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Cochem Castle
  • Historische Senfmühle Dehren GmbH
  • Pinnerkreuz
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz and Cochem. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cochem, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation, another must-visit landmark and beloved tramway renowned for its gorgeous features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Deutsches Eck. This historic monument is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Reichsburg Cochem also adds charm to your journey, and Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh wraps up your day with its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cochem. Cochem offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cochem's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a popular restaurant in Cochem. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kelsey's Eck, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cochem
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 401 km, 5 hours 32 min

  • Liebfrauenkirche, Trier
  • Porta Nigra
  • Trier Amphitheater
  • Monschau
  • More

On day 4 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 Trier and Monschau. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cochem today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Liebfrauenkirche. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Porta Nigra and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-listed monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Trier Amphitheater. After exploring the archeological site, head to Monschau. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a highlight in Cochem.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lord. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Dortmund - Departure day
  • More
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

Day 5 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This increasingly popular botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Brasserie Lotte, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, ALEX Dortmund offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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!

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