7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Frankfurt

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Cologne, and 3 nights in Frankfurt. 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 Düsseldorf, 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. Cologne Cathedral and Römerberg are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Iron Footbridge, learn more about the unique Palmengarten, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Main Bridge.

As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Baden-Baden, Freiburg im Breisgau, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Würzburg, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Rheinpromenade
K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-WestfalenCologne Rodenkirchen BridgeMuseum LudwigCologne Cathedral
Palmengarten FrankfurtStädel MuseumIron FootbridgeGoethe HouseRömerbergFrankfurt Cathedral
TrinkhalleMartin's GateBertoldsbrunnenAugustiner MuseumFreiburg Minster
Gallows GateBlade GateBurggartenGerman Christmas MuseumMedieval Crime MuseumPlönlein
Marienberg FortressOld Main BridgeWürzburg ResidenceAlte Brücke
Königsallee

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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  • Rheinpromenade
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Düsseldorf 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 Rheinpromenade, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Düsseldorf. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brewery Schumacher, 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 Brewery im Füchschen, 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 The ASH Düsseldorf, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dusseldorf
  • Cologne
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Drive 69 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
  • Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
  • Museum Ludwig
  • Cologne Cathedral
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf and Cologne, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This worthwhile art gallery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museum Ludwig. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cologne Cathedral, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Grid Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toddy Tapper. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Legends Bar & Terrasse, 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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cologne
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 195 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Städel Museum
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Goethe House
  • Römerberg
  • Frankfurt Cathedral
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On day 3 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 Frankfurt. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Palmengarten, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Städel Museum. This locally appreciated art museum is known for its mesmerizing 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 Iron Footbridge. This majestic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Goethe House is also worth visiting, along with Römerberg. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Frankfurt Cathedral. This beloved church provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Im Herzen Afrikas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Frankfurt tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gute Stute stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Gleis 25 is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Frankfurt
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Drive 559 km, 6 hours 22 min

  • Trinkhalle
  • Martin's Gate
  • Bertoldsbrunnen
  • Augustiner Museum
  • Freiburg Minster
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Frankfurt, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau. You still have 2 nights left in Frankfurt.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the curiosity-inducing Trinkhalle, an instagrammable museum in Frankfurt. Next, go to Martin's Gate.

After visiting Trinkhalle and Martin's Gate, have a stroll along Frankfurt's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bertoldsbrunnen. This heritage-rich public square offers a unique experience. Augustiner Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Freiburger Münsterbauverein, one of the most majestic places to visit in Frankfurt.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Frankfurt.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Lohninger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Apfelwein Dax beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ariston Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Frankfurt
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Drive 363 km, 4 hours 32 min

  • Gallows Gate
  • Blade Gate
  • Burggarten
  • German Christmas Museum
  • Medieval Crime Museum
  • Plönlein
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Frankfurt, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Gallows Gate. Next, head over to Castle Garden, one of the town’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its serene features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of German Christmas Museum. This photogenic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Medieval Crime Museum, a worthwhile museum, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber) before you head back to your hotel.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Frankfurt and your accommodation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Rote Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Belfordfrankfurt is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Frankfurt
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 461 km, 5 hours 51 min

  • Marienberg Fortress
  • Old Main Bridge
  • Würzburg Residence
  • Alte Brücke
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Würzburg and Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Frankfurt today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Marienberg Fortress. This visually striking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Old Main Bridge and learn what makes this majestic historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Würzburg Residence. After exploring the palace, head to Alte Brücke. This worthwhile historical landmark is a highlight in Frankfurt.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, 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 Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, 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 Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Studio 1, known for its lively atmosphere. Sakura Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dusseldorf - Departure day
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  • Königsallee
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf 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 Königsallee, a visually striking street before you head out.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Düsseldorf’s popular marketplace, Schadowstraße. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.

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.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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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