6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Bernkastel-Kues and Aachen and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cologne, Koblenz, Trier, Bernkastel-Kues, Sosberg, Keldung, Brühl, Aachen, and Duisburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cologne, 1 night in Bernkastel-Kues, and 1 night in Aachen. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cologne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lindt Chocolate Museum, learn more about the unique Deutsches Eck, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Porta Nigra.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Koblenz, Trier, Bernkastel-Kues, Sosberg, Keldung, Brühl, Aachen, and Duisburg, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
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Day 1
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Schildergasse
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Welcome to Cologne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cologne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Cologne is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Schildergasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Cologne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Reichard. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Grid Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
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Drive 9 km, 50 min
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Belgisches Viertel
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Belgisches Viertel is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Cologne, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a zoo, a church, and a museum. Start your day at Cologne Zoological Garden. This stunning zoo is a captivating place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.
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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 3
- Cologne
- Bernkastel-Kues
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Drive 279 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Zoo Neuwied
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
- Porta Nigra
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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 3 vibrant destinations - Neuwied, Koblenz, and Trier. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bernkastel-Kues. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a zoo, a castle, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Zoo Neuwied. This often recommended zoo is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Deutsches Eck, an interesting monument in the region. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Porta Nigra.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bernkastel-Kues. Bernkastel-Kues offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bernkastel-Kues's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Burgruine Landshut, a popular restaurant in Bernkastel-Kues. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bernkastel-Kues at Restaurant Alt Bernkastel, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Bernkastel-Kues
- Aachen
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Drive 262 km, 4 hours 13 min
- Geierlay Suspension Bridge
- Eltz Castle
- Maria Laach Abbey
- Phantasialand
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Sosberg, Keldung, Glees, and Brühl, 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 Aachen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Bernkastel-Kues includes a canopy walk, a castle, a monastery, an amusement park and much more! Geierlay Suspension Bridge is must-visit canopy walk and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Eltz Castle, a locally renowned castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Maria Laach Abbey, an awe-inspiring monastery, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aachen. 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 Aachen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Aachen by booking a table at La Bécasse. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider AKL Libanesisches Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Die Wg, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Gin Library is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Domkeller provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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.
Day 5
- Aachen
- Cologne
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Drive 199 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Aachen Cathedral
- Carolus Thermen
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Duisburg Zoo
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On day 5 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 and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Aachen, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Aachen Cathedral, a captivating church in the city. Then, head to Carolus Thermen and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching spa.
There are many interesting places to see in Aachen, and when you are ready for more, go to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This is one of the city’s most interesting awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the captivating Duisburg Zoo.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 6
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Old Market
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Day 6 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Old Market, an enchanting public square before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
Savor the flavors at Cafe Riese Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bangkok Thai Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!
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