One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Essen and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including an aquarium, a park, a botanical garden, a boardwalk, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This interesting aquarium is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Nord Park located in Düsseldorf for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Japanese Garden. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This boardwalk has an enchanting appeal. For a change of pace, head to Schloss Benrath. As one of the most notable attractions in Düsseldorf, this palace is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Yoshi by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Le Flair. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Studio 1, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sakura Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Engel Rockbar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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 Brühl, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, and Rösrath. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Today's adventure in Brühl promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, a spectacular amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brühl 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 11 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Brühl Castle, an increasingly popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brühl, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Königswinter may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Königswinter, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Drachenburg, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Königswinter should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french 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. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Today’s agenda in Cologne includes a zoo, a museum, and a church. Cologne Zoological Garden is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, a photogenic church, also available for your discovery today.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bonn may take around 35 min. Upon your arrival in Bonn, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a popular museum that draws attention for its heritage-rich features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rheinaue, an idyllic park that stands out in the city.

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

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 lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Rheinpark. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Rhine Garden Sculpture, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Old Market. This history-steeped public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Limani, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Suderman after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Dortmund and Feldhausen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Dortmund and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dortmund beckons with new experiences!

Rombergpark Botanical Garden is a frequently visited botanical garden we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour to Westfalenpark, a serene park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Set your GPS to Feldhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Feldhausen beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Movie Park and explore the picture-perfect features.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and classic menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Südrock Rock Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gentlem provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Essen allows for both. Start by heading to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This well-known museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!