One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen traveling south to Essen, Cologne, Koblenz, Frankfurt, and Dortmund

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 Bremen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Bremen. This underrated public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Bremen Roland, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Town Musicians Of Bremen, one of the most well-known places to see in Bremen. This literary work is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Universum Science Center. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this science center offers. Finally, take the path to the worthwhile Rhododendron-park Bremen, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Essen. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Schote, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kettner's Kamota, a local favorite known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning austrian and french contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Südrock Rock Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gentlem, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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 Essen 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.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a park, a zoo, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This captivating museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a must-see park 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 Duisburg Zoo. This well-known zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Tiger & Turtle, where you can take in stunning 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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cologne and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, and an amusement park. Begin your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This is a widely recognized church you should not miss. Another must-see is Lindt Chocolate Museum, a notable museum in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Phantasialand.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Koblenz by securing a reservation at Verbene. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Altes Brauhaus boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Spökes. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dubai Shisha Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Koblenz, Speyer, and Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Koblenz promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Deutsches Eck. This detailed monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Technik Museum Speyer, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Heidelberg Castle, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lafleur, renowned for its delicious modern french 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 Erno's Bistro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering classic french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gute Stute, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gleis 25 also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Frankfurt, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Frankfurt, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Iron Footbridge, a notable monument in the city. Then, head to Römerberg and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Frankfurt and when you are ready for more, go to Zoo Frankfurt. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots. After exploring the zoo, visit the notable Palmengarten.

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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dortmund by securing a table at The Stage. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Grammons Restaurant, famous for its scrumptious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vater&sohn offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Central Bar & More Dortmund is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 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 Dortmund. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Dortmund. Your adventure starts at German Football Museum, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Westfalenpark. This well-known park is known for its standout appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dortmund's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This romantic botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dortmund Zoo is also worth visiting.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, an iconic dining spot in Bremen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Jürgenshof, a popular restaurant in Bremen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bremen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Wohnzimmer Bremen, known for its inviting atmosphere. König Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cottons Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!