10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Muenster

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Check out the popular zoo, Cologne Zoological Garden. Afterward, continue to Media Park Köln Mbh, a cultural center every traveler should visit. As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This widely recognized church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cologne by securing a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional french and seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ox & Klee, famous for its scrumptious modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Cologne. 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Oberhausen and Hamm. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Hanover, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Oberhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Oberhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Oberhausen is Gasometer Oberhausen, a notable museum that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Sea Life Oberhausen, a photogenic aquarium that stands out in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Hamm, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Oberhausen to Hamm may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hamm, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Maximilianpark Hamm, a popular park in Hamm. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meteora, a highly-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Añejo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Quarks Bar Hannover. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

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.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Hanover, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Hanover and Laatzen.

Awaiting your discovery is the well-known Herrenhausen Gardens, a romantic botanical garden in Hanover. Next, go to Berggarten.

After visiting Herrenhausen Gardens and Berggarten, have a stroll along Hanover's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Masch Park. This instagrammable park offers a unique experience. Hanover Zoo is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hanover.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hanover's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Guru, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dublin Inn offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Altstadt-treff, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, My Way Cocktailbar is another popular option for a drink or two.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Hamburg.

Elbe Philharmonic Hall brings Hamburg's character to life. This eye-catching concert hall is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy St. Michael's Church, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Panoptikum, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Elbe Tunnel. This historic historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit St. Pauli Piers, a captivating pier, and take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, NOM vietnamese fusion food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cafe Miller, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Copa Cabana Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fontenay Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night.

Hamburger Kunsthalle is an ideal stop early in the day. This frequently visited art gallery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Planten Un Blomen, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hamburg 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 Hagenbeck Zoo, a captivating zoo in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Stadtpark.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Hamburg is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Hamburg.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Edelcurry, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Deichgraf Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tower Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Hamburg, make sure to drop by Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is St. Nikolai Memorial, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Miniatur Wunderland, one of the most top-rated places to see in Hamburg. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Hamburg Dungeon. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this haunted house offers.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Coeur D'Artichaut, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Spitzner, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Muenster. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Atelier is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Spooky's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Essen and Duisburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Muenster and set your GPS to Essen. 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 1 hour 8 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a well-known museum that everyone visiting Essen should see.

After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Duisburg is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Duisburg Zoo, an instagrammable zoo that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Tiger & Turtle, a frequently visited art installation that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and relax 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Limani, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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