7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hamburg traveling south to Hanover, Leipzig, and Dresden
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Hamburg, 1 night in Hanover, 1 night in Leipzig, and 2 nights in Dresden. 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 Hamburg, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate 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 Zwinger, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin Wall Memorial.
As you hit the open road and drive through Hamburg, Bremen, Hanover, Goslar, Leipzig, Dresden, Meissen, and Berlin, 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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Day 1
- Hamburg - Arrival day
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- Elbphilharmonie
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Welcome to Hamburg, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Hamburg's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Hamburg 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Hamburg. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Hamburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gastwerk Hotel 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 SuRolls, 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 bona'me, 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 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 a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Hamburg
- Hanover
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Town Musicians of Bremen
- Bremen
- Böttcherstraße
- Schnoor
- Herrenhäuser Gärten
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bremen and Hanover. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hanover. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Bremen, a visually striking public square that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Böttcherstraße, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Schnoor. When you're finished at the street, Herrenhausen Gardens awaits your visit. This botanical garden is a noteworthy highlight on today's itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Hanover, 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 Hanover. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Meteora, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Añejo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Quarks Bar Hannover is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Seña, known for its lively atmosphere. Sternwarte is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 3
- Hanover
- Leipzig
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Drive 305 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Goslarer Museum
- Market Square
- Harz National Park
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On day 3 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 Goslar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leipzig, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start by visiting Goslarer Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Market Square, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile public square renowned for its stunning features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Hanover by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Harz National Park. This majestic national park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Hanover experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leipzig. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leipzig's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at IMPERII, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Seminaris Hotel Leipzig boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lerchennest Leipzig. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Leipzig.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mephisto after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brick's Der Cocktail, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Skala also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 4
- Leipzig
- Dresden
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Drive 123 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Marktplatz Leipzig
- Bach-Museum Leipzig
- St. Thomas Church
- Wildpark Leipzig
- Brühl's Terrace
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Leipzig and Dresden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dresden, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Leipzig, including a public square, a museum, a church, a wildlife reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Marktplatz Leipzig. This notable public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bach-museum Leipzig, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Leipzig 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 St. Thomas Church, an underrated church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Wildpark Leipzig and Brühl's Terrace. End your day with a visit to Church Of Our Lady, a notable church that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden 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 Dresden's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Dresden. If you're in the mood for something new, try Luisenhof, Dresden, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bakery Wippler GmbH. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dresden.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hebeda's. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Blondes provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Dresden
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Drive 55 km, 1 hour 52 min
- Golden Rider
- Semperoper
- Old Masters Picture Gallery
- Zwinger
- Meissen Cathedral
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Dresden for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Dresden and Meissen.
Start by visiting Golden Rider, a prime spot to begin your journey. This remarkable monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Semperoper, another must-visit landmark and popular opera house renowned for its enchanting features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dresden by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Old Masters Picture Gallery. This instagrammable art gallery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dresden experience. We also recommend visiting Zwinger, a well-known palace. Nearby, you'll also find Meissen Cathedral, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Dresden.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dresden. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ristorante "Mamma Mia", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant brennNessel Dresden offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Old Beams Pub & Dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dresden.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gin House Dresden, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Madness Bar Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Nightfly Shisha And Cocktail provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Dresden
- Hamburg
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Drive 487 km, 5 hours 46 min
- Brandenburg Gate
- Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
- Alexanderplatz
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Berlin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Dresden covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a war memorial, and a public square. Start your adventure at Brandenburg Gate. This world-famous monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Berlin Wall Memorial, a must-see war memorial 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 Alexanderplatz. This timeless public square offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Hamburg, 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 Hamburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hamburg tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Cafe Miller. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fontenay Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 7
- Hamburg - Departure day
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- Mönckebergstraße
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hamburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Mönckebergstraße, a street that captures the true essence of Hamburg. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Hamburg’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Europa Passage. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Savor your final moments in Germany at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hamburg.
Savor the flavors at Edelcurry, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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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