9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne, Dortmund, and Essen and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This notable aquarium is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Nord Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Japanese Garden, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Düsseldorf. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this boardwalk offers. Then, head to Schloss Benrath, a top-rated palace that adds another dimension to your day.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Flair, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for french and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Studio 1 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sakura Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Engel Rockbar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 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 Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, Brühl, and Rösrath. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Schloss Drachenburg. This captivating castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Siebengebirge, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Brühl Castle, one of the most beloved places to see in Düsseldorf. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Phantasialand. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this amusement park offers. Then, head to Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, a top-rated nature reserve that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a public square, a church, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Old Market, a must-see public square 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 Cologne Cathedral. This widely recognized church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, where you can take in gorgeous features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Feldhausen, Bottrop, and Gelsenkirchen, 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 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Movie Park. This photogenic amusement park is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Tetrahedron In Bottrop, another noteworthy attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Nordstern Park, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

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

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vater&sohn, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dortmund. Central Bar & More Dortmund is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dortmund, including a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a zoo and much more! Start your day with a visit to German Football Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Westfalenpark, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dortmund on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an often recommended botanical garden in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Dortmund Zoo.

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.

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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gaststätte Lütge-eck. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Solingen, Rubbelrath, and Oberhausen. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dortmund. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most captivating places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Burg Castle, a captivating castle, known for its stunning features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Hotel Schloss Dyck. This romantic castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gasometer Oberhausen. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kettner's Kamota, a top local spot known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gentlem is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Diamond Cocktail Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 8 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. 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. Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking museum before continuing your journey. Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is your next stop. This underrated 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 Duisburg Zoo. This eye-catching zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Konditorei Heinemann is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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