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

Day 3 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Zoological Garden. This popular zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Old Market, one of the most notable places to see in Cologne. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Lindt Chocolate Museum. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this museum offers.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Bonn, Königswinter, and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This respected museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, a must-visit performing arts theater in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rheinaue, a captivating park. For a change of scene, check out Schloss Drachenburg, known for its enchanting features. We also recommend visiting Phantasialand. This amusement park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese and sushi cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french and contemporary menu.

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

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights 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 notable aquarium is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Nord Park located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.

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. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this boardwalk. Next up is Schloss Benrath, a highly recommended palace.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Studio 1, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sakura Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Engel Rockbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 6 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 Düsseldorf and Duisburg. You still have 1 night left in Düsseldorf.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Düsseldorf. Begin your sightseeing with Rheinpromenade. This locally appreciated boardwalk is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Burgplatz, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Düsseldorf, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Hofgarten. This frequently visited park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Duisburg Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this 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.

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 Rubbelrath, Solingen, Wuppertal, 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 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing castle, Hotel Schloss Dyck. Afterward, continue to Burg Castle, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This captivating zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Gasometer Oberhausen, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Kettner's Kamota, a local gem known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Südrock Rock Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gentlem for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Essen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a park, and a laser tag arena. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Villa Hügel and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hügel Park, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. When you're finished at the museum, Shaft Xii awaits your visit. This museum is a heritage-rich highlight on today's itinerary.

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 Essen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining destination in Essen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Banana Leaf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Artemis. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Essen this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Metropol Café-bar Essen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Temple Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Zum Pümpchen provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!