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

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.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Dortmund Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Casino Hohensyburg, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern.

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.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Zoological Garden. This interesting 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 interesting 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 eye-catching 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.

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.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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 Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, an amusement park, a spa, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Schloss Drachenburg. This is a popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Phantasialand, a famous amusement park in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Carolus Thermen. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Aachen Cathedral, another of the town’s locally renowned attractions.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Engelchen, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Cherie, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 5 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 Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a notable zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Gasometer Oberhausen, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Düsseldorf at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Duisburg Zoo.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hannappel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Schote, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

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

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Essen, Haltern Am See, and Nordkirchen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Essen. Your adventure starts at Museum Folkwang, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This often recommended laser tag arena is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Essen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This picture-perfect museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Heidenhäuschen Westruper Heide is also worth visiting, along with Schloss Nordkirchen. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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 explore more of Dortmund, 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 memorable dining experience in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Dortmund, Grammons Restaurant shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a top-rated bar in the area.

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.