9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf to Cologne, Dortmund, 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.

Check out the popular aquarium, Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. Afterward, continue to Nord Park, a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Japanese Garden. This locally appreciated botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Schloss Benrath, a captivating palace 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.

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Studio 1, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sakura Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 4 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.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This well-known museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Old Market, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Cologne Cathedral, a top-rated church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cologne Zoological Garden.

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 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 lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Feldhausen, Bottrop, and Gelsenkirchen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Feldhausen may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Feldhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Movie Park, a widely recognized amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Tetrahedron In Bottrop, a locally appreciated art installation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bottrop and set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Gelsenkirchen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nordstern Park, a locally appreciated park in Gelsenkirchen. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Dortmund, Grammons Restaurant shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

Continue your lively evening at Vater&sohn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Central Bar & More Dortmund ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night.

German Football Museum is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Westfalenpark, another must-visit landmark and well-known park renowned for its romantic 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 Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dortmund experience. We also recommend visiting Dortmund Zoo, a popular zoo.

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 Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Wuppertal, Solingen, Rubbelrath, and Oberhausen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Dortmund, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Wuppertal. Your travel time is around 46 min.

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 popular zoo that everyone visiting Wuppertal should see.

Set your GPS to Solingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Solingen beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Burg Castle, a notable castle in Solingen. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rubbelrath. This drive usually takes around 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Hotel Schloss Dyck and explore the visually striking features.

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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Südrock Rock Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gentlem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Diamond Cocktail Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Konditorei Heinemann. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

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