7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster to Essen, Dortmund, and Hanover and surrounding area

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

Start by visiting Schloss Nordkirchen, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Movie Park, another must-visit landmark and spectacular amusement park renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Muenster by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Nordstern Park. This stunning park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Muenster experience.

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.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Südrock Rock Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gentlem for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 Essen and Bochum, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Essen on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned museum, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Afterward, continue to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a laser tag arena every traveler should visit.

As you explore Essen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This underrated zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Bochum Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vater&sohn, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 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 Dortmund, Horn, and Porta Westfalica. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Dortmund is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a zoo, a park, a rock formation, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Dortmund Zoo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Westfalenpark, a serene park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Externsteine, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Emperor William Monument.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Jante, renowned for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Votum, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sternwarte offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hanover. Dormero Hotel Hannover is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Landesmuseum Hannover. This increasingly popular museum is a history-steeped place to see in Hanover. Continue your discovery at Masch Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hanover, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hanover Zoo. This popular zoo offers a picture-perfect encounter with Hanover. Next, make your way to Hanover Fairground 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 Hanover.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Guru, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dublin Inn offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hanover.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Altstadt-treff stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, My Way Cocktailbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

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 Hanover. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hanover. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a food market, a park, an aquarium, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Markthalle Hannover. This is an increasingly popular food market you should not miss. Another must-see is Eilenriede, a beloved park in Hanover.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sea Life Hannover. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Berggarten, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Herrenhausen Gardens, a visually striking place of interest in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muenster, 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 Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Muenster by securing a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, famous for its scrumptious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Spitzner, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Muenster. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Eulen & Lerchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The James, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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