13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Bernkastel-Kues, and Trier and surrounding area

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

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a church, and a botanical garden. Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This interesting museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Museum Ludwig, 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 Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Forstbotanischer Garten Und Friedenswald, where you can take in mesmerizing 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 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

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.

Make sure to visit Belgisches Viertel, a popular neighborhood in Cologne. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Japanese Garden Leverkusen. This eye-catching botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Rheinpark, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its visually striking features.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Cologne as you explore Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel). Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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 Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Suderman offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Say good night to Cologne and look forward to another great 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 1 destination, Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a zoo, a park, a marina, a lake, an art installation and much more! Start your day at Duisburg Zoo. This breathtaking zoo is a well-known place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Duisburg Inner Harbour. This enchanting marina is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Sechs-seen-platte is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the lake, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Tiger & Turtle. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this intriguing art installation.

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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi 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 Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This eye-catching aquarium is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the serene features of Nord Park, a must-visit park 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 Japanese Garden, an up-and-coming botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, known for its awe-inspiring features. We also recommend visiting Schloss Benrath. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Coffee Fellows as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Studio 1. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sakura Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Museum Kunstpalast, a worthwhile museum in the city. Then, head to Hofgarten and soak in the ambiance of this standout park.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This is one of the city’s most underrated instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the art gallery, visit the increasingly popular Burgplatz. Not far away, you'll also find Rheinpromenade. This boardwalk is a visually striking highlight in Düsseldorf.

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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Im Goldenen Kessel, 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 DORMERO Hotel 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 Konditorei Heinemann, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Düsseldorf for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Solingen, Wuppertal, Rubbelrath, and Oberhausen.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a castle, a zoo, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Burg Castle. This popular castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, which may be one of the most gorgeous places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf 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 Hotel Schloss Dyck, an often recommended castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Gasometer Oberhausen.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Okinii Düsseldorf City, 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 Julio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Königswinter, Brühl, and Aachen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aachen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating castle, Schloss Drachenburg. Afterward, continue to Phantasialand, an amusement park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Carolus Thermen. This up-and-coming spa is an essential stop. Following that, head to Aachen Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Elisenbrunnen, a curiosity-inducing monument in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aachen. 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 Aachen. 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 Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of classic french cuisine. Alternatively, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Die Wg, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Gin Library is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Domkeller also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Glees, Keldung, and Sosberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Aachen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monastery, a castle, and a canopy walk. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Maria Laach Abbey and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Eltz Castle, a history-steeped castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Geierlay Suspension Bridge, one of the hamlet’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bernkastel-Kues. Bernkastel-Kues 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 Bernkastel-Kues, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Burgruine Landshut, a top-rated dining destination in Bernkastel-Kues. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 11 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Trier, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Trier for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Braubach and Koblenz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Trier, including a castle and a monument. Start your day at Marksburg. This awe-inspiring castle is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Trier. Then, wander over to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Deutsches Eck. This remarkable monument is a favorite among visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Trier and your accommodation.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Flieten Franz, an iconic dining spot in Trier. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Donna Mia Trier, a popular restaurant in Trier. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bitburger Wirtshaus, a hidden gem nestled in Trier. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 12 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 Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Trier allows for both. Start by heading to Schalkenmehrener Maar. This underrated lake provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun, an enchanting wildlife reserve, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Metternich Castle, an intriguing castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Reichsburg Cochem.

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 a lovely dining experience at Cafe Riese 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 Bangkok Thai Restaurant, 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 Servus Colonia Alpina. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.