11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Aachen, Trier, and Bernkastel-Kues and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cologne Cathedral. This breathtaking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Museum Ludwig, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Malakoffturm, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its historic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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 you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Belgisches Viertel is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Cologne. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cultural center, a zoo, and a park. Begin your adventure at Media Park Köln Mbh. This is a beloved cultural center you should not miss. Another must-see is Cologne Zoological Garden, a locally renowned zoo in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rheinpark.

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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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, Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Rubbelrath. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Burg Castle, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This popular zoo is known for its gorgeous appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Gasometer Oberhausen. This gorgeous museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Hotel Schloss Dyck is also worth visiting.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese and sushi 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, Le Flair is known as a top local spot for its delicious french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s agenda in Düsseldorf includes an aquarium, a park, a boardwalk, a public square and much more! Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is must-visit aquarium and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Nord Park, an underrated park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, a romantic boardwalk, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Düsseldorf. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Rheinpromenade. If you’re looking for more, Burgplatz is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

Dine in style at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Coffee Fellows. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Studio 1, known for its lively atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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.

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Düsseldorf, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Schloss Benrath, a notable palace in the city. Then, head to Königsallee and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting street.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Hofgarten. This is one of the city’s most intriguing eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the popular Duisburg Zoo. Not far away, you'll also find Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Düsseldorf.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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 Aachen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Schloss Drachenburg. This notable castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Phantasialand, a visually striking amusement park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Carolus Thermen, a curiosity-inducing spa. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Aachen Cathedral. Round off your day at Elisenbrunnen, another gem in Düsseldorf with symbolic features to discover.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aachen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Aachen by securing a reservation at La Bécasse. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, AKL Libanesisches Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Die Wg, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Gin Library offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aachen. Domkeller is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Koblenz and Keldung. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Trier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Aachen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Deutsches Eck is your next stop. This interesting monument is one of the best-rated sights in Aachen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Eltz Castle. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Trier. 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bagatelle, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french contemporary and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, BECKER'S is one of the best restaurants for creative and classic cuisine in Trier. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Chrome!, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Studio 11 Gbr. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Simplicissimus, another top-rated place 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Trier and Graach a der Mosel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Trier, including a monument, an archeological site, and a museum. Start your adventure at Porta Nigra. This locally renowned monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Trier Amphitheater located in Trier for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik. Its historic features will captivate you.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bernkastel-Kues. Bernkastel-Kues offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bernkastel-Kues. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Burgruine Landshut, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Alt Bernkastel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bernkastel-Kues.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Sosberg, Ellenz-Poltersdorf, and Cochem, 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 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Geierlay Suspension Bridge. This captivating canopy walk is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Metternich Castle, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Reichsburg Cochem, one of the most captivating places to see in Bernkastel-Kues. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this museum offers.

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.

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.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!