6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Bernkastel-Kues and Aachen and surrounding area

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Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 3 nights in Cologne, 1 night in Bernkastel-Kues, and 1 night in Aachen. 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 Cologne, 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Deutsches Eck, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Porta Nigra.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Koblenz, Trier, Bernkastel-Kues, Sosberg, Keldung, Brühl, Aachen, and Duisburg, 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
Cologne Zoological GardenCologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumBelgisches Viertel
Zoo NeuwiedEhrenbreitstein FortressEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckPorta Nigra
Geierlay Suspension BridgeEltz CastleMaria Laach AbbeyPhantasialand
Aachen CathedralCarolus ThermenLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg Zoo
Old Market

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 2 nights 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.

Cologne 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 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 Cologne. 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Reichard. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 9 km, 50 min

  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Belgisches Viertel
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Belgisches Viertel, a must-see neighborhood in Cologne. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a captivating zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cologne Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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
  • Bernkastel-Kues
  • More

Drive 279 km, 3 hours 50 min

  • Zoo Neuwied
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Porta Nigra
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Neuwied, Koblenz, and Trier, 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 Bernkastel-Kues. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a zoo, a castle, and a monument. Start your day at Zoo Neuwied. This breathtaking zoo is a locally appreciated place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Deutsches Eck. This breathtaking monument is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Porta Nigra is a popular spot in the region that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bernkastel-Kues. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bernkastel-Kues. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Burgruine Landshut, an iconic dining spot in Bernkastel-Kues. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, a popular restaurant in Bernkastel-Kues. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bernkastel-Kues
  • Aachen
  • More

Drive 262 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Geierlay Suspension Bridge
  • Eltz Castle
  • Maria Laach Abbey
  • Phantasialand
  • 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 Sosberg, Keldung, Glees, and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aachen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Bernkastel-Kues’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Geierlay Suspension Bridge. This gorgeous canopy walk is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Eltz Castle, a must-visit castle in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Maria Laach Abbey, a curiosity-inducing monastery. For a change of scene, check out Phantasialand, known for its photogenic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen 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 Aachen's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Aachen by reserving a table at La Bécasse. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of classic french cuisine. Looking for something different? AKL Libanesisches Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aachen.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Die Wg, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Gin Library is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Domkeller is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Say good night to Aachen and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Aachen
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 199 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Aachen Cathedral
  • Carolus Thermen
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Aachen and Duisburg. 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.

Aachen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a spa, a park, a zoo and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Aachen Cathedral. Just a short distance away is Carolus Thermen, a romantic spa that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Duisburg Zoo.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Cologne - Departure day
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  • Old Market
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Day 6 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne 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, we recommend visiting Old Market, a romantic public square before you head out.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.

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

Dine in style at Cafe Riese Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bangkok Thai Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!

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