7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Essen

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

Dortmund is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at German Football Museum, a beloved museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Dortmund Zoo, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Casino Hohensyburg. This casino is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dortmund at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

On day 3 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Cologne Zoological Garden, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Old Market. This awe-inspiring public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Lindt Chocolate Museum is also worth visiting.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Soul Bar Cologne after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Schloss Drachenburg. This captivating castle is an instagrammable place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Phantasialand, an eye-catching amusement park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Carolus Thermen. This worthwhile spa offers a romantic encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Aachen Cathedral 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 Cologne.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Yoshi by Nagaya, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Düsseldorf is Le Flair, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious french and contemporary menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Engelchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Düsseldorf. Your adventure starts at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Gasometer Oberhausen. This popular museum is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Düsseldorf's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This picture-perfect park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Duisburg Zoo is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Schote is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Essen. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kettner's Kamota. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Südrock Rock Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Gentlem is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Essen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 6 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 Essen, Haltern Am See, and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Essen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Museum Folkwang is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich museum before continuing your journey. Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is your next stop. This locally appreciated laser tag arena is one of the best-rated sights in Essen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This breathtaking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Heidenhäuschen Westruper Heide and Schloss Nordkirchen.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

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

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.