Relaxed 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Germany and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Cologne and beyond. With 3 nights left in Cologne, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Gasometer Oberhausen is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most well-known places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Duisburg Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Tiger & Turtle. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cologne and visit amazing attractions in Brühl and Cologne destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Cologne. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set aside time today to explore Schildergasse, a standout street 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. You might also want to visit Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the village.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and scenic views. Start at the top-rated Phantasialand, a picture-perfect amusement park in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience.

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

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.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cologne.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Cologne, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cologne will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Germany.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, an interesting castle in the city. Then, head to Deutsches Eck and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Eltz Castle. This is one of the city’s most captivating stunning spots of interest.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cafe Riese Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Museum Folkwang. This curiosity-inducing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a captivating museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Shaft Xii. Round off your day at Nordstern Park, another gem in Cologne with symbolic features to discover.

In the city of Dortmund, 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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

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 Dortmund. The bars in Dortmund make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dortmund!