One-Week Relaxed Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Essen

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Dortmund, 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 Dortmund, and meet locals along the way!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Next, go to German Football Museum.

After visiting Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern and German Football Museum, have a stroll along Dortmund's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Dortmund Zoo. This visually striking zoo offers a unique experience. Casino Hohensyburg is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Dortmund's bustling shopping hub, Dortmund Indoor Market Hall. 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, Dortmund Indoor Market Hall offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Stage offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Grammons Restaurant, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary and classic french cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 3 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 city of Bochum. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Essen, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Today's adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum. This romantic botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of German Mining Museum. This photogenic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

In the city of Essen, 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.

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 Essen.

Discover the culinary delights of Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Schote, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Kettner's Kamota, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering austrian and french contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Essen and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Südrock Rock Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gentlem is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Essen. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Essen. 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 Essen!

Essen is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Villa Hügel, a frequently visited museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Hügel Park, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Ruine Neue Isenburg. This archeological site is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Essen at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Stadtgarten. After exploring the park, head to the curiosity-inducing Museum Folkwang.

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 Essen.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining destination in Essen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Banana Leaf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Artemis. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Essen this evening.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Metropol Café-bar Essen offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Temple Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Zum Pümpchen is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Essen, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Essen, including a museum and a bird watching area. Start your adventure at Kokerei Zollverein. This underrated museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein located in Essen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Shaft Xii. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Red Dot Design Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this museum. Next up is Vogelschutzgebiet Heisinger Bogen, a highly recommended bird watching area.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Essen offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SAUSALITOS, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant tablo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rosemarie Garten & Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Essen.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Goldbar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cafe Nord for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Louis Café & Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Essen, 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 Essen, and meet locals along the way!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Botanischer Garten Grugapark. This notable park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Krupp-park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Essen. This laser tag arena is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Essen. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Essen 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 Essen to find the best options for you!

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at CoCoLÁ - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Essen a der Lichtburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café LIVRES. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Essen.

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

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Gelsenkirchen and drive in the direction of the village of Feldhausen for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Dortmund, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Essen, including a park, an amusement park, and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Nordstern Park. This beloved park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Movie Park, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Essen 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 Nordkirchen, a frequently visited castle in the city.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Dortmund. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Dortmund 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 meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ALEX Dortmund is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dortmund 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.

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