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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set aside time today to explore Belgisches Viertel, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Start by visiting Cologne Zoological Garden, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and extraordinary church renowned for its historic 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. This 2-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, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a museum, and a park. Start your adventure at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This captivating zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Gasometer Oberhausen, a must-see museum 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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This notable park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Duisburg Zoo, where you can take in picture-perfect features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Düsseldorf. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the notable Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, an eye-catching aquarium in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Nord Park.

After visiting Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf and Nord Park, have a stroll along Düsseldorf's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hofgarten. This standout park offers a unique experience. Rheinpromenade is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Schloss Benrath, one of the most respected places to visit in Düsseldorf.

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 Düsseldorf, 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.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Coffee Fellows. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Studio 1, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sakura Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Engel Rockbar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glees, Koblenz, and Keldung. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bernkastel-Kues, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Düsseldorf on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Maria Laach Abbey is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic monastery before continuing your journey. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is your next stop. This notable castle is one of the best-rated sights in Düsseldorf.

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 Deutsches Eck. This culturally significant monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Eltz Castle.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Burgruine Landshut, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Alt Bernkastel beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Graach a der Mosel, Sosberg, and Trier, 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 Trier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Bernkastel-Kues promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Geierlay Suspension Bridge, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Trier Amphitheater, one of the village’s most intriguing attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Porta Nigra. This culturally significant monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Chrome! offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Studio 11 Gbr is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Simplicissimus is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 7 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 Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, and Cochem. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aachen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Trier, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Schalkenmehrener Maar, an up-and-coming lake in the village. Then, head to Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun and soak in the ambiance of this idyllic wildlife reserve.

There are many interesting places to see in Trier, and when you are ready for more, go to Reichsburg Cochem. This is one of the village’s most captivating stunning spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the beloved Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen 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 Aachen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start 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. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Aachen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Die Wg, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Gin Library is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Domkeller 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 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Aachen. Your adventure starts at Elisenbrunnen, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Aachen Cathedral. This popular church is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Aachen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Carolus Thermen. This picture-perfect spa offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Phantasialand is also worth visiting, along with Schloss Drachenburg. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Suderman, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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