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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, 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 place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the detailed wonders of Nord Park, a must-see park 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 Japanese Garden. This underrated botanical garden offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Schloss Benrath. 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.

Visit Schadowstraße in Düsseldorf for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Schadowstraße has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

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

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.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter, 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 by visiting Carolus Thermen, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic spa is sure to impress. Next on your list is Aachen Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and interesting church renowned for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Düsseldorf by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Phantasialand. This picture-perfect amusement park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Düsseldorf experience. We also recommend visiting Schloss Drachenburg, a locally renowned castle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a museum, a public square, a church, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum 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 Cologne Cathedral. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this 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.

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Duisburg, Feldhausen, and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, an amusement park, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Movie Park, a photogenic amusement park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Schloss Nordkirchen, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, recognized for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vater&sohn stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Dortmund and Essen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Dortmund’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at German Football Museum. This heritage-rich museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Westfalenpark, 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 Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an up-and-coming botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, known for its respected features. We also recommend visiting Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This laser tag arena is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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.

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.