5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling west to Cologne

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at German Football Museum. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Steinwache located in Dortmund for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Dortmund Zoo. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Grid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toddy Tapper. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Schildergasse, a must-see street in Cologne. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Belgisches Viertel, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a church, a public square, and a museum. Start your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Market located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Lindt Chocolate Museum. Its visually striking features will captivate you.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soul Bar Cologne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

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 Brühl, Königswinter, and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Phantasialand. This widely recognized amusement park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Schloss Drachenburg, a romantic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Duisburg Zoo, an interesting zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable 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 Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its lively atmosphere.

Say good night to Dortmund and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!