5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Frankfurt traveling north to Düsseldorf

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Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Essen, Cologne, and Brühl. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Frankfurt and 2 nights 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 Frankfurt, 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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Römerberg.

As you hit the open road and drive through Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Essen, Cologne, and Brühl, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Zeil
RömerbergIron FootbridgeZoo FrankfurtPalmengarten Frankfurt
Landschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooLaserZone LaserTag Essen West - BorbeckUNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumPhantasialand
Alte Oper

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Frankfurt - Arrival day
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  • Zeil
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Welcome to Frankfurt, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Frankfurt's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Frankfurt 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 Zeil, a must-see street, and 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 Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Im Herzen Afrikas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Frankfurt
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 232 km, 2 hours 57 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Zoo Frankfurt
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Römerberg. This interesting public square is a symbolic place to see in Frankfurt. Continue your discovery at Iron Footbridge, a visually striking monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Frankfurt, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Zoo Frankfurt. This locally renowned zoo offers a mesmerizing encounter with Frankfurt. Next, make your way to Palmengarten to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Frankfurt.

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.

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, 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 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Duisburg and Essen. You still have 1 night left in Düsseldorf.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This notable park is a history-steeped place to see in Düsseldorf. Continue your discovery at Duisburg Zoo, a visually striking zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Düsseldorf, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. Next, make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Düsseldorf.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dusseldorf
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Phantasialand
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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 Cologne and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a church, a museum, and an amusement park. Start your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Lindt Chocolate Museum, a must-see museum 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 Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french 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 Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Jambo Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Cosy Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Frankfurt - Departure day
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  • Alte Oper
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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 Frankfurt 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, begin at Alte Oper. This notable opera house is a popular place to see in the city.

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. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

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

Dine in style at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chicago Meatpackers boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Frankfurt. 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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