Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Germany and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Cologne and beyond. With 3 nights left in Cologne, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Gasometer Oberhausen, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most notable spots.

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

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cologne and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Cologne, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cologne will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Germany.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Schildergasse, a street that captures the true essence of Brühl. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering a different perspective on Brühl.

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 extraordinary amusement park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Cologne Cathedral, a stunning church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum.

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

Exploring the food culture in Cologne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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 feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cologne and visit amazing attractions in Koblenz and Keldung destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Cologne. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Deutsches Eck, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Eltz Castle. This interesting castle is a traveler-favorite.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Essen and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Gelsenkirchen and the city of Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund 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 Museum Folkwang. This intriguing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a captivating museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Shaft Xii. Round off your day at Nordstern Park, another gem in Cologne with breathtaking features to discover.

In the city of Dortmund, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dortmund.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.