7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster traveling west to Cologne

On day 2 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 Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, and Feldhausen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Muenster, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Schloss Nordkirchen, an often recommended castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gelsenkirchen. This drive usually takes around 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Nordstern Park, an often recommended park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gelsenkirchen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Feldhausen. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Movie Park, a top-rated amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. You still have 3 nights left in Cologne.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Wuppertal. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 45 min. When you arrive in Wuppertal, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a popular zoo in Wuppertal. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace 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 Oberhausen. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Gasometer Oberhausen is a captivating museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Oberhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park that everyone visiting Duisburg should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Duisburg Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Keldung, Koblenz, and Glees.

Keldung’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. Keldung welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Eltz Castle, a notable castle known for its history-steeped features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 48 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Deutsches Eck, an interesting monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Glees. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Maria Laach Abbey is a frequently visited monastery we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brühl and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a church, and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum. Just a short distance away is Cologne Cathedral, a historic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the village’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the visually striking features.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Riese Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bangkok Thai Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Servus Colonia Alpina is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Dortmund. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Essen today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Essen. This car ride takes around 58 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Museum Folkwang, an increasingly popular museum known for its eye-catching features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, an increasingly popular laser tag arena that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and uncover the details of this instagrammable museum.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dortmund. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Westfalenpark, a notable park that everyone visiting Dortmund should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Coeur D'Artichaut is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Muenster. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Spitzner. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Eulen & Lerchen, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The James is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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