One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne and Essen and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Düsseldorf is brimming with adventures.

Start your day at Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This picture-perfect aquarium is a popular place to see in Düsseldorf. Then, wander over to Nord Park. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Japanese Garden. This majestic botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Düsseldorf offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the boardwalk, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Schloss Benrath. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned palace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Cologne, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bonn and Cologne.

Your adventure in Cologne is only getting started when you visit Cologne Zoological Garden, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum is known for its visually striking appeal.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bonn, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Bonn may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bonn, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bonn is House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, a captivating museum that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rheinaue, an eye-catching park that stands out in the city.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Cologne.

Enjoy all that Rheinpark has to offer. This is an underrated park you should not miss. Another must-see is Rhine Garden Sculpture, an often recommended park in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Museum Ludwig. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Cathedral, another of the city’s widely recognized attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Old Market, a history-steeped place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Limani, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Suderman. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Dortmund and Feldhausen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dortmund. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dortmund is Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a beloved botanical garden that draws attention for its serene features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Westfalenpark, a romantic park that stands out in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dortmund, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Feldhausen. This drive usually takes around 43 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Movie Park, a widely recognized amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Essen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Essen.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Schote, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kettner's Kamota, a local favorite known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for austrian and french contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Südrock Rock Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gentlem is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Düsseldorf, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the notable museum, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Afterward, continue to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a laser tag arena every traveler should visit. As you explore Essen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Duisburg, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Duisburg may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Duisburg Zoo and explore the stunning features. Next, make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, another highlight in Duisburg.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Im Goldenen Kessel, a highly-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're eager to try something different, consider DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Konditorei Heinemann. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!