9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne to Düsseldorf, Bernkastel-Kues, Trier, and Aachen and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Belgisches Viertel is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Cologne Zoological Garden leaves a lasting impression. This zoo is one of the most notable places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, an astonishing church, known for its stunning 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum is a highly recommended experience.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Wuppertal, Oberhausen, and Duisburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Wuppertal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 45 min. Wuppertal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, a notable zoo that everyone visiting Wuppertal should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Wuppertal, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Oberhausen. This drive usually takes around 44 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Gasometer Oberhausen and explore the instagrammable features.

When you’ve had your share of Oberhausen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 17 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

Start 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.

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

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

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Your adventure in Düsseldorf is only getting started when you visit Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Nord Park. This curiosity-inducing park is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Düsseldorf's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Hofgarten. This romantic park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Rheinpromenade is also worth visiting, along with Schloss Benrath. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Studio 1, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sakura Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Engel Rockbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Glees, Koblenz, and Keldung. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bernkastel-Kues, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Düsseldorf’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glees. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive in Glees, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Maria Laach Abbey, a curiosity-inducing monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Koblenz, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Glees to Koblenz may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a locally renowned castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Deutsches Eck and admire its breathtaking features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Keldung is Eltz Castle, a locally renowned castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Graach a der Mosel, Sosberg, and Trier are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Trier, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sosberg may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Sosberg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Zylinderhaus Museum Für Oldtimer Und Technik, an intriguing museum known for its history-steeped features.

After soaking in Graach a der Mosel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sosberg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Sosberg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Geierlay Suspension Bridge, a locally renowned canopy walk known for its visually striking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sosberg and set your GPS to Trier. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 25 min. Upon reaching Trier, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Trier Amphitheater is a worthwhile archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour to Porta Nigra, a historic monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Trier, 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 Trier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Trier by reserving a table at Bagatelle. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french contemporary and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to BECKER'S, renowned for its delectable creative and classic dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Chrome!, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Studio 11 Gbr offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Simplicissimus provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Schalkenmehren, Weiersbach, and Cochem. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aachen, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Schalkenmehren, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Trier to Schalkenmehren may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Schalkenmehren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Schalkenmehrener Maar is an often recommended lake we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Schalkenmehren and set your GPS to Weiersbach. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 15 min. Upon reaching Weiersbach, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Wildlife And Adventure Park Daun is a worthwhile wildlife reserve we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Weiersbach’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cochem. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 42 min. When you arrive in Cochem, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Reichsburg Cochem and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Historische Senfmühle Dehren Gmbh, another highlight in Cochem.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Aachen. Aachen 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 Aachen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

Keep the evening going at Die Wg, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Gin Library, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Domkeller, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Aachen and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Aachen, Brühl, and Königswinter. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Elisenbrunnen is always a good idea. This increasingly popular monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Aachen Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Carolus Thermen. This beloved spa offers an enriching experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 47 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Phantasialand, a famous amusement park that everyone visiting Brühl should see.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brühl behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Drachenburg, a well-known castle known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Limani, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Suderman, a prime location for a drink.

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