9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg, Essen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne and surrounding area

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved botanical garden, Rombergpark Botanical Garden. Afterward, continue to Westfalenpark, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Dortmund U-tower. This underrated art installation is an essential stop. Following that, head to German Football Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Hamburg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

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

Get ready for an exciting day in Hamburg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a historical landmark, a concert hall, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Planten Un Blomen. This is a locally renowned botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Elbe Tunnel, an interesting historical landmark in Hamburg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Miniatur Wunderland, another of the city’s famous attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen 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 Essen. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hannappel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Schote, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional austrian and french contemporary menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Südrock Rock Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Gentlem is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This captivating park is a standout place to see in Essen. Continue your discovery at Duisburg Zoo, a breathtaking zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Essen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Duisburg Inner Harbour. This beloved marina offers a standout encounter with Essen. Next, make your way to Sechs-seen-platte to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Tiger & Turtle, an intriguing art installation that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Essen.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Engelchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Cherie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the locally appreciated Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald, a picturesque wildlife reserve in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Hofgarten.

After visiting Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald and Hofgarten, have a stroll along Düsseldorf's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Burgplatz. This instagrammable public square offers a unique experience. Rheinpromenade is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Rheinturm, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Düsseldorf.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Coffee Fellows. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Aachen, Keldung, and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Düsseldorf includes a church, a castle, and a monument. Aachen Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Eltz Castle, a popular castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Deutsches Eck, a picture-perfect monument, also available for your discovery today.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Grid Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 7 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Cathedral. This top-rated church is known for its gorgeous appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Old Market. This enchanting public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Lindt Chocolate Museum is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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