11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling north to Dortmund, Hanover, Hamburg, Bremen, and Essen

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 Düsseldorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Düsseldorf. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a botanical garden, an aquarium, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at Hofgarten. This is an up-and-coming park you should not miss. Another must-see is Japanese Garden, a locally appreciated botanical garden in Düsseldorf.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Nord Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, another of the city’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Schloss Benrath, a standout place of interest in the city.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vater&sohn is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Loka Lounge Dortmund, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Central Bar & More Dortmund. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the up-and-coming museum, German Football Museum. Afterward, continue to Westfalenpark, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This increasingly popular botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Dortmund Zoo, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Seña, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sternwarte, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set aside time today to explore Mönckebergstraße, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the top-rated Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a romantic concert hall in Hamburg. Next, go to Miniatur Wunderland.

After visiting Elbe Philharmonic Hall and Miniatur Wunderland, have a stroll along Hamburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hamburg Dungeon. This photogenic haunted house offers a unique experience. St. Nikolai Memorial is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hamburg's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 2 nights left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Hamburg, including a pier, a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your day at St. Pauli Piers. This stunning pier is a captivating place to see in Hamburg. Then, wander over to Elbe Tunnel. If breathtaking sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Planten Un Blomen. This majestic botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Hamburg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Hagenbeck Zoo is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the zoo, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Stadtpark. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting park.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Edelcurry, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Deichgraf Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Tower Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Forest Bar - By Henn, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Ciu` Die Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Michael's Church. This historic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Chilehaus, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Schwerin Castle. This visually striking castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Hamburg and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hamburg's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brücke 10, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Shiso Burger Hamburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Meyer Lansky's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Chug Club is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Hamburg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cuxhaven and Bremerhaven. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bremen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Alte Liebe In Cuxhaven. This well-known pier is a romantic place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Bremerhaven Zoo, a breathtaking zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Aussichtsplattform Sail City. This up-and-coming observation deck offers a visually striking encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost 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 Hamburg.

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

As you explore more of Bremen, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Robben, a highly-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Market Hall Eight Bremen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rosso Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Red Rock, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bremen and Nordkirchen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Bremen. This curiosity-inducing public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Bremen Roland, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Town Musicians Of Bremen, one of the most well-known places to see in Bremen. This literary work is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Schnoor. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this street offers. Then, head to Schloss Nordkirchen, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Schote is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Essen. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kettner's Kamota. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Südrock Rock Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gentlem is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 10 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 Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Essen, including a museum, a laser tag arena, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck located in Essen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Duisburg Zoo. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the zoo, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this park.

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

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

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.

Say good night to Düsseldorf and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!