7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Dortmund and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Düsseldorf today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This photogenic aquarium will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Nord Park and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Japanese Garden. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This intriguing boardwalk is a highlight in Düsseldorf. As your day continues, stop by Schloss Benrath, known for its romantic features.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Yoshi by Nagaya is one of the best restaurants for japanese and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Le Flair. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Studio 1, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sakura Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Engel Rockbar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Düsseldorf, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots. Start at Carolus Thermen, an up-and-coming spa in the city. Then, head to Aachen Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.

There are many interesting places to see in Düsseldorf, and when you are ready for more, go to Phantasialand. This is one of the city’s most widely recognized picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the amusement park, visit the locally renowned Schloss Drachenburg.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Lindt Chocolate Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Old Market, an interesting public square, known for its visually striking 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 Cologne Cathedral. This stunning church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Cologne Zoological Garden. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Duisburg, Feldhausen, and Nordkirchen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This popular park is a picture-perfect place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Movie Park, a picture-perfect amusement park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Nordkirchen. This beloved castle offers a history-steeped encounter with Cologne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

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

As you explore more of Dortmund, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dortmund by securing a table at The Stage. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Grammons Restaurant, famous for its scrumptious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vater&sohn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

On day 6 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 Dortmund and Essen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dortmund, including a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a laser tag arena and much more! Start your day at German Football Museum. This heritage-rich museum is an up-and-coming place to see in Dortmund. Then, wander over to Westfalenpark. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This masterful botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Dortmund offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing laser tag arena.

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

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

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 day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.