One-Week Relaxed Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne

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

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth, a curiosity-inducing castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Nord Park. This park is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Düsseldorf at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Japanese Garden. After exploring the botanical garden, head to the captivating Schloss Benrath.

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!

Exploring the food culture in Düsseldorf 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Studio 1 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sakura Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Düsseldorf, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a wildlife reserve, a park, a public square, a boardwalk and much more! Begin your adventure at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This is an up-and-coming wildlife reserve you should not miss. Another must-see is Hofgarten, an up-and-coming park in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Burgplatz. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpromenade, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, an enchanting place of interest in the city.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Düsseldorf's bustling shopping hub, Schadowstraße. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Schadowstraße offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

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.

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

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Brühl. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cologne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including an amusement park, a castle, a mountain range, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Brühl Castle, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Schloss Drachenburg, a captivating castle in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Siebengebirge and Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cologne. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Cologne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 5 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!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved park, Rheinpark. Afterward, continue to Old Market, a public square every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Rhine Garden Sculpture. This beloved park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Museum Ludwig, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Cologne Cathedral, an extraordinary church in the city.

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

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

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

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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a museum and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cologne Zoological Garden, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

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 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 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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Suderman, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This intriguing botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bochum Park. This intriguing park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find German Mining Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Düsseldorf in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring the food culture in Düsseldorf 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sausalitos Dusseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Okinii Düsseldorf City, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Julio, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Düsseldorf and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.