One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling west to Düsseldorf, Koblenz, Heidelberg, Essen, and Hamburg

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Hanover, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Brühl, Königswinter, Koblenz, Keldung, Speyer, Heidelberg, Cologne, Essen, Muenster, and Hamburg.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Hanover, 1 night in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Koblenz, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Essen, and 1 night in Hamburg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Hanover, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Miniatur Wunderland and Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Elbe Philharmonic Hall, learn more about the unique Cologne Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberg Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Brühl, Königswinter, Koblenz, Keldung, Speyer, Heidelberg, Cologne, Essen, Muenster, and Hamburg, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.

Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Eilenriede City Forest
MarkthalleHanover ZooMaschparkHerrenhäuser Gärten
Duisburg ZooLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordPhantasialandSchloss Drachenburg
Ehrenbreitstein FortressEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckEltz CastleTechnic Museum Speyer
Heidelberg PalaceCologne Cathedral
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinShaft XIIRed Dot Design MuseumSchlossplatz
Miniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonieElbe TunnelPlanten un Blomen
Schillerdenkmal

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Hanover - Arrival day
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  • Eilenriede City Forest
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Hanover and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Hanover for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Hanover is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Eilenriede, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Hanover. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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 Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Meteora, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar Añejo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Quarks Bar Hannover. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Hanover
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Markthalle
  • Hanover Zoo
  • Maschpark
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
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On day 2 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 Hanover. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities in the charming city of Hanover. Your adventure starts at Markthalle Hannover, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Hanover Zoo. This interesting zoo is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hanover's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Masch Park. This instagrammable park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Herrenhausen Gardens is also worth visiting.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese and sushi cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french and contemporary menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Engelchen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Cherie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Auberge Rock Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dusseldorf
  • Koblenz
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Phantasialand
  • Schloss Drachenburg
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Duisburg, Brühl, and Königswinter. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Koblenz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a zoo, a park, an amusement park, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. This captivating zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf 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 Phantasialand, a widely recognized amusement park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Schloss Drachenburg.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Koblenz. Koblenz offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Koblenz, 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Verbene in Koblenz by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Verbene delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Altes Brauhaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Spökes, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dubai Shisha Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Koblenz
  • Heidelberg
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Eltz Castle
  • Technic Museum Speyer
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Koblenz, Keldung, and Speyer. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This well-known castle is a breathtaking place to see in Koblenz. Continue your discovery at Deutsches Eck, a culturally significant monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Koblenz, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Eltz Castle. This captivating castle offers an instagrammable encounter with Koblenz. Next, make your way to Technik Museum Speyer to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Koblenz.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Heidelberg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heidelberg
  • Essen
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Drive 329 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Cologne Cathedral
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg and Cologne, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Essen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heidelberg, including a castle and a church. Start your day at Heidelberg Castle. This symbolic castle is a spectacular place to see in Heidelberg. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If breathtaking sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Essen. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Kettner's Kamota, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your lively evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gentlem is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Diamond Cocktail Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Essen
  • Hamburg
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Drive 369 km, 4 hours 30 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Shaft XII
  • Red Dot Design Museum
  • Schlossplatz
  • More

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 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Muenster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Essen. Begin your sightseeing with Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This captivating museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Shaft Xii, 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 Red Dot Design Museum. This underrated museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Schlossplatz, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hamburg. Hamburg 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 Hamburg's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Hamburg
  • Hanover
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Drive 161 km, 2 hours 37 min

  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Planten un Blomen
  • More

On day 7 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 Hamburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Hamburg includes a museum, a concert hall, a historical landmark, a botanical garden and much more! Miniatur Wunderland is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an astonishing concert hall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Elbe Tunnel, a culturally significant historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Hanover. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Hanover, Jante shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Votum is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Altstadt-treff, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of My Way Cocktailbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Hanover - Departure day
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  • Schillerdenkmal
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Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Friedrich Schiller. This intriguing sightseeing destination is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Hanover’s shopping center, the lively Ernst-August-Galerie. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Masa Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!

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