5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling south to Cologne and Düsseldorf
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Muenster, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Düsseldorf. 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 Muenster, 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. Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Movie Park, learn more about the unique Lindt Chocolate Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cologne Zoological Garden.
As you hit the open road and drive through Muenster, Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, Feldhausen, Cologne, Brühl, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, and Essen, 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
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Day 1
- Münster - Arrival day
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- Schlossplatz
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Muenster and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Muenster 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.
Muenster 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 Schlossplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Muenster. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Muenster, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Cuba - Club und Bar Münster, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Schloßtheater Münster offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cafe Extrablatt Münster Königsstraße is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Muenster.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Atelier offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Spooky's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Münster
- Nordkirchen
- Gelsenkirchen
- Cologne
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Schloss Nordkirchen
- Nordstern Park
- Movie Park Germany
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, and Feldhausen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nordkirchen, 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 Muenster to Nordkirchen may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nordkirchen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Nordkirchen, an intriguing castle that everyone visiting Nordkirchen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Gelsenkirchen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nordkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Gelsenkirchen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Nordstern Park, an often recommended park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Feldhausen. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at Movie Park and explore the instagrammable features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 3
- Cologne
- Eckdorf
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Phantasialand
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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 and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cologne Cathedral. This historic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Lindt Chocolate Museum, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.
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.
Phantasialand is an impressive amusement park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Engelchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Cherie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Auberge Rock Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 4
- Dusseldorf
- Duisburg
- Essen
- Münster
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Duisburg Zoo
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Duisburg and Essen, 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 Muenster. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Duisburg Zoo and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another highlight in the city.
Set your GPS to Essen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Essen beckons with new experiences!
After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Muenster. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Muenster's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Coeur D'Artichaut, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Spitzner, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Muenster. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eulen & Lerchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The James offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Münster - Departure day
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- Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
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Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Muenster 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 Muenster’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Prinzipalmarkt. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Muenster is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster, a beloved botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit 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 Muenster.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Isegrim Café | Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Road Stop Münster is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Muenster. 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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