7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen traveling west to Cologne and Dortmund

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bremen. You’ll stay in Bremen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Bremen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Rhododendron-park Bremen is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene botanical garden before continuing your journey. Universum Science Center is your next stop. This locally appreciated science center is one of the best-rated sights in Bremen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Bremen. This UNESCO world heritage-listed public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Bremen Roland and Town Musicians Of Bremen.

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 Bremen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Jürgenshof? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bremen.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wohnzimmer Bremen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, König Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cottons Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 2 vibrant destinations - Gelsenkirchen and Essen. 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bremen, including a park, a museum, and a laser tag arena. Start your adventure at Nordstern Park. This up-and-coming park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein located in Bremen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. After the laser tag arena, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Museum Folkwang. Visitors usually appreciate the heritage-rich features of this museum.

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 harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Grid Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Toddy Tapper, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brühl and Cologne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Phantasialand is the perfect place to start. This amusement park is one of the most widely recognized places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum, known for its picture-perfect 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 Cologne Cathedral. This historic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Cologne Zoological Garden. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a museum, and a park. Start your adventure at Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal. This notable zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Gasometer Oberhausen, a must-see museum in the city.

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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This notable park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Duisburg Zoo, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, recognized for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vater&sohn, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 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 Bremen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Dortmund is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a zoo and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited German Football Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Westfalenpark, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Dortmund Zoo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bremen. 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 Bremen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Paulaner's a der Schlachte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bolero Schlachte is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vengo die Gemüseküche. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bremen tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Schwarzer Hermann. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Eisen, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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