One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Essen, Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Hamburg and surrounding area

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

Get ready for an exciting day in Dortmund. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Begin your adventure at German Football Museum. This is an underrated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a locally appreciated botanical garden in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dortmund Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dasa Working World Exhibition, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hannappel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Schote, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern 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 Kettner's Kamota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional austrian and french contemporary menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gentlem. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Diamond Cocktail Lounge, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Essen. Your adventure starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This notable park is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Essen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Duisburg Zoo. This visually striking zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Tiger & Turtle is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Le Flair, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Solingen, 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Lindt Chocolate Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Cologne Cathedral is your next stop. This impressive church is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Burg Castle. This respected castle is a sight to behold.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different culinary experience in Hamburg, Haerlin shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative french and classic 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, 100/200 Kitchen is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a pier, a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your adventure at St. Pauli Piers. This notable pier is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Elbe Tunnel located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Planten Un Blomen. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Hagenbeck Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this zoo. Next up is Stadtpark, a highly recommended 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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Cafe Miller, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Copa Cabana Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Fontenay Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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 Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Hamburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a haunted house, a museum, a concert hall and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable St. Michael's Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hamburg Dungeon, a visually striking haunted house that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Miniatur Wunderland, one of the city’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the famous Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund, 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 an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gaststätte Lütge-eck, known for its lively atmosphere.

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