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

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

Start by visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Westfalenpark, another must-visit landmark and interesting park renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dortmund by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Dortmund U-tower. This visually striking art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dortmund experience. We also recommend visiting German Football Museum, a frequently visited museum.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hamburg, 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 Hamburg. 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 Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Haerlin, recognized for its delicious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the evening going at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Hamburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a historical landmark, a concert hall, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Planten Un Blomen and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Elbe Tunnel, a picture-perfect historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the city’s most impressive spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Miniatur Wunderland.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Essen's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Essen is Kettner's Kamota, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious austrian and french contemporary menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Südrock Rock Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gentlem, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

On day 4 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 Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Essen. Begin your sightseeing with Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This locally renowned park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Duisburg Zoo, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Essen, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Duisburg Inner Harbour. This beloved marina is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Sechs-seen-platte, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Tiger & Turtle is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Engelchen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Cherie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Auberge Rock Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 5 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.

Düsseldorf is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a wildlife reserve, a park, a public square, a boardwalk, an observation deck and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hofgarten, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Burgplatz, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Rheinpromenade. When you're finished at the boardwalk, Rheinturm awaits your visit. This observation deck is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Coffee Fellows. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Studio 1, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sakura Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Engel Rockbar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Aachen, Keldung, and Koblenz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Düsseldorf. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Aachen Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most well-known places to visit in Düsseldorf. Next, head to Eltz Castle, a locally renowned castle, 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 Deutsches Eck. This remarkable monument is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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 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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Cologne Zoological Garden. This popular zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Old Market. This notable public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Lindt Chocolate Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. 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 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.

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