10-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling west to Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Kassel, and Hamburg

Welcome to Hanover, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Hanover's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Hanover 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 Friedrich Schiller 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 Hanover. 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 Hanover. 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Meteora, a top-rated dining spot in Hanover. If you're in the mood for something new, try Quarks Bar Hannover, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Guru. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hanover.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Seña, known for its lively atmosphere. Sternwarte is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover and Laatzen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Berggarten is a great place to start. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,252 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,944 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Hanover Zoo. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,767 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,866 reviews.

Upon reaching Laatzen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Hanover Fairground. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,899 visitors.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dortmund.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. 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 Strobels Dortmund. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dortmund tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Brühl, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Dortmund’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 travelers from near and far. Approximately 5,000,000 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Cologne.

Cologne is also the home of Cologne Chocolate Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,704 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Brühl, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Brühl may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Phantasialand your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 89,377 reviews. More than 1,750,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Auberge Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Engel Rockbar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Glees and Koblenz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Heidelberg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Glees. This car ride takes around 1 hour 33 min.

Kick off the day at Maria Laach Abbey, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This monastery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,710 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,856 reviews.

Continue your journey at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,199 travelers from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Heidelberg. Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. 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 delicious meal at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Sonder Bar (Pinte), a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Destille, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Orange Cafe Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stuttgart, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Neckarwiese (Heidelberg) one of your first sightseeing stops in Heidelberg. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,998 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Heidelberger Marktplatz is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,651 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Old Bridge Heidelberg. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Church of the Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. A trip to this popular church building is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,505 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Heidelberg Palace. This museum enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,117 local and international travelers.

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

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Stuttgart by booking a table at Der Zauberlehrling. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Ritzi Gourmet, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le petit Coq after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Jigger & Spoon, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 6 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 Stuttgart. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Schloßplatz, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,355 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Mercedes-Benz Museum. Mercedes-Benz Museum is an automobile museum with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 42,800 reviews. Attracting more than 876,109 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Wilhelma is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 33,034 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Porsche Museum. This automobile museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,816 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Frankfurt by reserving a table at Gustav. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Lafleur, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative 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 Erno's Bistro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic french and modern 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 Frankfurt.

Keep the evening going at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gleis 25, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kassel, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Römerberg. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,391 visitors.

Next, make your way to Iron Footbridge. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,044 reviews.

While in Frankfurt, we also recommend a visit to Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,563 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Alte Oper. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,371 travelers, this concert hall is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Frankfurt.

Make your way to Palmengarten, perhaps the most famous botanical garden in Frankfurt. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,050 reviews.

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

Make sure to book a table at The Shamrock - Irish Pub Kassel, a popular restaurant in Kassel. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kassel at Eberts, 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 Cafe Del Sol Kassel. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kassel tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cafe Bohemia Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. BAR SEIBERT is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Chacal provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Kassel and Bad Fallingbostel, 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 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Park Schönfeld. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,122 reviews.

Next up is Natural History Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,573 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Fuldaaue. This naturschutzgebiet has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,741 reviews.

When you arrive in Bad Fallingbostel, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Lüneburg Heath Nature Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Bad Fallingbostel. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,465 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Hamburg.

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, Copa Cabana Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hanover. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Miniatur Wunderland your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 87,297 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,649 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this concert hall every year.

St. Pauli Piers is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,128 visitors.

When you’re finished at St. Pauli Piers, the perfect next stop is Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,570 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Planten un Blomen. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 21,983 reviews.

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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Dublin Inn, 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 Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder, 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 Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great day 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 Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Hanover’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Germany, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Germany home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Opernplatz. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hanover, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 605 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Masa Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße.

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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!