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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cologne Zoological Garden. This mesmerizing zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church. For a change of scene, check out Lindt Chocolate Museum, known for its visually striking features.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Soul Bar Cologne, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Oberhausen and Hamm. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the interesting Gasometer Oberhausen, a respected museum in Cologne. Next, go to Sea Life Oberhausen.

After visiting Gasometer Oberhausen and Sea Life Oberhausen, take time to explore Cologne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Maximilianpark Hamm. This breathtaking park offers a unique experience.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Meteora, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bar Añejo, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Quarks Bar Hannover, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Seña, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sternwarte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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’ll start and end your day in Hanover, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Hanover for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hanover and Laatzen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hanover today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Herrenhausen Gardens. This visually striking botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Berggarten and learn what makes this eye-catching botanical garden unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Masch Park. After exploring the park, head to Hanover Zoo. This notable zoo is a highlight in Hanover. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the often recommended Hanover Fairground. Enjoy exploring this incredible exposition center at your own pace.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Guru, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Dublin Inn? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hanover.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Altstadt-treff, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, My Way Cocktailbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

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 Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This astonishing concert hall is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to St. Michael's Church, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Panoptikum. This locally renowned wax museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Elbe Tunnel, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at St. Pauli Piers and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most well-known attractions.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s agenda in Hamburg includes an art gallery, a botanical garden, a zoo, a park and much more! Hamburger Kunsthalle is must-visit art gallery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Planten Un Blomen, a well-known botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Hagenbeck Zoo, a romantic zoo, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Hamburg. If you’re looking for more, Stadtpark is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

Savor the flavors at Edelcurry, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Deichgraf Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Tower Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Bar - By Henn, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Ciu` Die Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Hamburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Muenster, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a museum, a monument, and a haunted house. Start your adventure at Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This popular museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to St. Nikolai Memorial located in Hamburg for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Miniatur Wunderland. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Hamburg Dungeon. This haunted house has an instagrammable appeal.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Atelier offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Spooky's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Muenster, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum in the city. Then, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking park.

There are many interesting places to see in Muenster and when you are ready for more, go to Duisburg Zoo. This is one of the city’s most popular spots. After exploring the zoo, visit the beloved Tiger & Turtle.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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