Relaxed 9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Cologne Cathedral, an astonishing church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Museum Ludwig, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Cologne Zoological Garden. 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 Rheinpark.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

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.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Media Park Köln Mbh. Then, enjoy Lindt Chocolate Museum, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its photogenic features.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Limani, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Bochum and drive in the direction of the city of Düsseldorf for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Düsseldorf, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Zeiss Planetarium Bochum. This up-and-coming planetarium is an eye-catching place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo 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 Bochum Park. Next, make your way to German Mining Museum 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.

In the city of Düsseldorf, 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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Düsseldorf, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Flair, a local favorite known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning french and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Düsseldorf, and meet locals along the way!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Burgplatz. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpromenade and learn what makes this eye-catching boardwalk unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. After exploring the boardwalk, head to Kunstsammlung. This increasingly popular art gallery is a highlight in Düsseldorf. As your day continues, stop by Schloss Benrath, known for its standout features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Düsseldorf. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Düsseldorf that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Düsseldorf to find the best options for you!

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 Düsseldorf, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coffee Fellows. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Düsseldorf. The bars in Düsseldorf make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Düsseldorf, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including a wildlife reserve, a botanical garden, a park, an aquarium and much more! Start your adventure at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This locally appreciated wildlife reserve is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Japanese Garden located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Nord Park. Its remarkable features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this aquarium.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Düsseldorf, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Im Goldenen Kessel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Konditorei Heinemann as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Düsseldorf.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Düsseldorf can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Düsseldorf. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Düsseldorf. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Düsseldorf!

Start your adventure at Museum Kunstpalast. This locally appreciated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, a must-see art gallery 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 Hofgarten. This locally appreciated park offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Königsallee. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Düsseldorf offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Okinii Düsseldorf City is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Julio. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today's adventure in Düsseldorf promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Phantasialand. This picture-perfect amusement park is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Brühl Castle, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Schloss Drachenburg, one of the village’s most notable attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Siebengebirge. This romantic mountain range is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, an underrated nature reserve, and take a stroll around the area.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cologne. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!