10-Day Germany Road Trip from Düsseldorf to Essen, Hamburg, Berlin, and Hanover

Say hello to Düsseldorf! 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 Düsseldorf for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Düsseldorf 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 Königsallee or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Düsseldorf. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Düsseldorf. 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 Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese, and sushi 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 Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french, and contemporary menu.

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

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

On day 2 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 Düsseldorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Benrath. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Düsseldorf, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,705 visitors.

Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,358 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Nord Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,034 reviews.

Japanese Garden is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,176 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Rheinpromenade, perhaps the most famous park in Düsseldorf. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,033 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Essen. Essen 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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern, and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Schote is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Essen. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. You could also check for a table at Traumkuh - Burger & Poutine. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Essen tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Südrock rock pub. Alternatively, go to gentleM, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Muenster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Journey into the unknown at UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Shaft XII is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,333 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Essen is Red dot design museum. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,831 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Essen offers an experience you will remember.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Muenster. Your travel time is around 1 hour 9 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schlossplatz. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Muenster, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,366 visitors.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Known for its 3-star Michelin reputation, The Table Kevin Fehling captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative, and international cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french, and classic dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore 100/200 Kitchen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative, and modern menu. With a 2-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 Hamburg.

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 recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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 Berlin. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Planten un Blomen. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

Continue your journey at St. Pauli Piers. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 travelers from near and far.

Hamburg is also the home of Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 79,037 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Miniatur Wunderland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Berlin, 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 Berlin, 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Berlin by securing a reservation at Rutz. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover FACIL, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Brandenburg Gate. This extraordinary triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 162,714 visitors.

Next, make your way to Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. This holocaust memorial is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 45,507 reviews.

While in Berlin, we also recommend a visit to Potsdamer Platz. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 60,557 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Topography of Terror. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,601 travelers, this military museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Berlin.

Make your way to Checkpoint Charlie, perhaps the most famous point of interest in Berlin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 83,167 reviews.

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.

As you explore more of Berlin, 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 a delicious meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sharlie Cheen Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Berlin Icebar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Curtain Club also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Großer Tiergarten. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,436 visitors.

Pergamon Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 29,292 visitors. Pergamon Museum attracts up to 1,298,000 visitors every year.

Berlin Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. This lutheran cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 visitors.

Fernsehturm Berlin is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This television tower is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Alexanderplatz. This square has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213,494 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Berlin, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Berlin below.

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.

Make sure to book a table at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berlin at Restaurant Marjellchen, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Berlin tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at booze bar berlin, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Victoria Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Treptower Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,355 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit East Side Gallery. East Side Gallery is an art museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 reviews.

German Museum of Technology is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,609 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 21,717 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Charlottenburg Palace, a famous château in Berlin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,831 travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Berlin's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Curry 61, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gasthaus Krombach, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of SOY, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Franken Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mikkeller Berlin, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, LIMONADIER Cocktailbar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Berlin, and Hanover. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Berlin Wall Memorial. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,126 reviews.

Next up is Siegessäule. This victory column has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,706 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Berlin Zoological Garden. This zoo has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 63,593 reviews.

After soaking in Berlin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hanover. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 56 min. When you arrive in Hanover, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hanover Zoo is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing 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 a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jante, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Votum, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative, and modern cuisine in the city.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Hanover, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cologne. Your travel time is around 3 hours 10 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Rheinpark. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,479 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Market. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

While in Cologne, we also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting around 5,000,000 visitors every year, Cologne Cathedral is one of the best places to visit. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers, this zoo is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Cologne.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. 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 Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coffee Fellows. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Studio 1, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sakura Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Engel Rockbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Journey into the unknown at Hofgarten, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable english garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 reviews.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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!