5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne and Cochem
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Cochem. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dortmund, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Deutsches Eck, learn more about the unique Porta Nigra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Reichsburg Cochem.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz, Cochem, Trier, and Monschau, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Dortmund
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Dortmund - Arrival day
- More
- Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund
- More
Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Team Crack - Live Escape Game Dortmund, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dortmund. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Alten Markt boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ringhotel Drees. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Vater&sohn, known for its lively atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dortmund
- Cologne
- More
Drive 164 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Rheinboulevard
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Cathedral
- Beethoven-Haus Bonn
- Beethoven-Denkmal
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Bonn, 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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dortmund allows for both. Start by heading to Rheinboulevard. This underrated boardwalk provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral, an extraordinary church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Beethoven-haus Bonn. Round off your day at Beethoven-denkmal, another gem in Dortmund with heritage-rich features to discover.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Savor the flavors at SAVOY Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Reichard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Cologne
- Cochem
- More
Drive 174 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
- Cochem Castle
- Historische Senfmühle Dehren GmbH
- Pinnerkreuz
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz and Cochem. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cochem, 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 Cologne 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 picture-perfect castle before continuing your journey. Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation is your next stop. This worthwhile tramway is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.
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 breathtaking monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Reichsburg Cochem and Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh. If time allows, end your day with Pinnerkreuz, an eye-catching monument that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cochem. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cochem. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant zum Onkel Willi, a top-rated dining spot in Cochem.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kelsey's Eck. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.
Head back to your accommodation in Cochem and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Cochem
- Dortmund
- More
Drive 401 km, 5 hours 32 min
- Liebfrauenkirche, Trier
- Porta Nigra
- Trier Amphitheater
- Monschau
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Trier and Monschau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Liebfrauenkirche. This worthwhile church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Porta Nigra, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Trier Amphitheater, one of the most intriguing places to see in Cochem. This archeological site is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Monschau. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this historical landmark offers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lord. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Gaststätte Lütge-eck is an excellent place to start.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 5
- Dortmund - Departure day
- More
- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an eye-catching botanical garden before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dortmund’s shopping center, the lively Thier-Galerie Dortmund. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany. Take one last moment to soak in Germany, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.