10-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne to Bielefeld, Hamburg, Berlin, and Hanover

Say hello to Cologne! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Cologne 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 Old Market or 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 Cologne. 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 in Cologne. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french, and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern, and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore 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 Bielefeld. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Cologne Cathedral. This popular catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 5,000,000 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Lindt Chocolate Museum. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Dellbrücker Heide. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 904 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 local and international travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bielefeld, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Savor the flavors at GlückundSeligkeit, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, New Orleans beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Knigge. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bielefeld tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Die Villa offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, THREE SIXTY Bielefeld is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cutie is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Hanover. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bielefeld, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hanover. Your travel time is around 1 hour 20 min.

Make Herrenhausen Gardens your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Berggarten. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,252 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this botanical garden every year.

Markthalle Hannover is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,074 visitors.

When you’re finished at Markthalle Hannover, the perfect next stop is Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,161 reviews.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, The Table Kevin Fehling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative, and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Haerlin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative french, and classic cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at 100/200 Kitchen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative, and modern menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, HERITAGE Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Berlin, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

Take the opportunity to see St. Pauli Piers. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,508 visitors.

Elbe Tunnel is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This road tunnel has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 travelers.

Hamburg is also the home of Elbe Philharmonic Hall. Around 79,037 people have rated this concert hall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Planten un Blomen. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 22,471 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Hamburg is also your chance to admire Miniatur Wunderland. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Berlin. Berlin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Rutz, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern, and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Berlin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at FACIL. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative, and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Monkey Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of BAR SAINT JEAN, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Green Door Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 3 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Fernsehturm Berlin. This much-appreciated television tower is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

Next up is Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Brandenburg Gate. This triumphal arch has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 162,714 reviews.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This holocaust memorial has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 45,507 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,717 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Berlin has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Savor the flavors at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Berlin TV Tower. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sharlie Cheen Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Berlin Icebar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Curtain Club provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Siegessäule. This extraordinary victory column is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 visitors.

Next, make your way to Großer Tiergarten. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,436 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Potsdamer Platz. This square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 60,557 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Topography of Terror. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,601 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Checkpoint Charlie. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 83,167 travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Marjellchen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Berlin.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, booze bar berlin stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Victoria Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Treptower Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,355 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at East Side Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 travelers.

Alexanderplatz is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 213,494 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Pergamon Museum. This well-loved art museum boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 29,292 reviews. In a single year, approximately 1,298,000 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Berlin Wall Memorial awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a museum, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,126 previous visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Curry 61, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gasthaus Krombach, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SOY. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Franken Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Mikkeller Berlin, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is LIMONADIER Cocktailbar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 8 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 Berlin, and Potsdam. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Berlin Zoological Garden, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 63,593 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Charlottenburg Palace. This château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,831 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Berlin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Potsdam. Your travel time is around 32 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sanssouci is a great place to start. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,145 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sanssouci Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,286 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hanover, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Experience a taste of Handwerk in Hanover by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Handwerk delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative, and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Votum, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 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 Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hanover, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Essen may take around 2 hours 38 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Duisburg. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 28 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, die wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 10 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Cologne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rheinpark. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,479 reviews.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!