One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Essen and Düsseldorf and surrounding area

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

Start by visiting Rheinpark, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cologne Zoological Garden, another must-visit landmark and notable zoo renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cologne Cathedral. This stunning church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum.

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 Cologne's best restaurants.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Keldung, Alken, and Koblenz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Eltz Castle, a captivating castle that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Thurant Castle, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Deutsches Eck. This monument is one of the village’s most locally renowned 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 Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Suderman stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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 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 Solingen, Oberhausen, and Moers. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Burg Castle. This popular castle is a picture-perfect place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Gasometer Oberhausen, a gorgeous museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Sea Life Oberhausen. This notable aquarium offers an eye-catching encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Schlosspark to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen 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 Essen, 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 Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Essen, Schote shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Kettner's Kamota is known as a top local spot for its delicious austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Südrock Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gentlem, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen and Duisburg, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Essen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a laser tag arena, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and allow yourself time to explore.

Continue your journey to Duisburg Zoo, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Flair, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for french and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Engelchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Cherie is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including an aquarium, a park, a public square, a palace and much more! Start your day with a visit to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This captivating aquarium is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Nord Park, which may be one of the most mesmerizing 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 Burgplatz, a beloved public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hofgarten and Schloss Benrath.

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 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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Brühl, Königswinter, and Bonn. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Düsseldorf’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Phantasialand. This picture-perfect amusement park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Schloss Drachenburg, a must-visit castle in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Gop Varieté-theater Bonn, an often recommended performing arts theater. For a change of scene, check out House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Rheinaue. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Cafe Riese Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bangkok Thai Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Servus Colonia Alpina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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