11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling east to Hanover, Chemnitz, Berlin, and Hamburg
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Hanover, Leipzig, Chemnitz, Dresden, Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, and Behringen. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Hanover, 1 night in Chemnitz, 4 nights in Berlin, and 2 nights in Hamburg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dortmund, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Hanover, Leipzig, Chemnitz, Dresden, Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, and Behringen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Dortmund - arrival day
- Dortmund - Arrival day
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- Westfalenpark
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Say hello to Dortmund! 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 Dortmund for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Dortmund 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 Westfalenpark 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 Dortmund. 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 Dortmund. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Zum Alten Markt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ringhotel Drees is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dortmund.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vater&sohn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Dortmund and Hanover
- Dortmund
- Hanover
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours
- Dortmund Zoo
- Museum of Art and Cultural History
- German Football Museum
- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dortmund. 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 1 night.
A blend of an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a romantic, a scenic, and a detailed await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable zoo, Dortmund Zoo. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Museum Of Art And Cultural History. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to German Football Museum. This beloved museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, another must-visit site that will enhance your 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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Hanover, Jante shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Votum is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Keep the evening going at Bar Seña, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sternwarte, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Dormero Hotel Hannover, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3 – Hanover, Leipzig, and Chemnitz
- Hanover
- Leipzig
- Chemnitz
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Drive 358 km, 4 hours 17 min
- Hanover Zoo
- Marktplatz Leipzig
- Monument to the Battle of the Nations
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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 - Hanover and Leipzig. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chemnitz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start your adventure at Hanover Zoo. This captivating zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
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 Leipzig. Your travel time is around 2 hours 44 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Marktplatz Leipzig. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Monument To The Battle Of The Nations. This notable monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chemnitz. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Chemnitz. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Villa Esche in Chemnitz by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Villa Esche offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious international and contemporary menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Miramar Chemnitz offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 4 – Chemnitz, Dresden, and Berlin
- Chemnitz
- Dresden
- Berlin
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Zwinger
- Semperoper
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dresden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.
Set your GPS to Dresden and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 2 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dresden beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Zwinger. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Semperoper. This locally renowned opera house is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Church Of Our Lady. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, continue your journey to Brühl's Terrace, a popular public square.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Berlin. Berlin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Berlin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Rutz in Berlin by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Rutz 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 Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, acclaimed for its delectable creative 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 FACIL, 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 contemporary cuisine in the city.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Monkey Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Saint Jean is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Green Door Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 5 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 14 km, 59 min
- Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
- Pergamon Museum
- Fernsehturm Berlin
- Alexanderplatz
- East Side Gallery
- Brandenburg Gate
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Berlin, including a war memorial, a museum, an observation deck, a public square, a street art, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Berlin Wall Memorial. This captivating war memorial is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Pergamon Museum, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Berlin 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 Fernsehturm Berlin, one of the city’s most captivating observation deck. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Alexanderplatz and East Side Gallery.
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 Berlin's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sharlie Cheen Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Berlin Icebar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Curtain Club offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 6 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Brandenburg Gate
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- DDR Museum
- Berlin Cathedral
- Charlottenburg Palace
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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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Berlin. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most captivating places to visit in Berlin. Next, head to Ddr Museum, a locally renowned museum, known for its historic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Berlin Cathedral. This breathtaking church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Charlottenburg Palace adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Berlin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Marjellchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.
Keep the evening going at Booze Bar Berlin, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Victoria Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 7 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Checkpoint Charlie
- Topography of Terror
- Potsdamer Platz
- Großer Tiergarten
- Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche
- Brandenburg Gate
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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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Berlin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a museum, a public square, a park, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Checkpoint Charlie. This is a famous historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Topography Of Terror, a captivating museum in Berlin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Potsdamer Platz. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Großer Tiergarten, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a culturally significant church. Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche is a truly remarkable place to visit in Berlin.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at Curry 61, 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 Gasthaus Krombach, 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 SOY. As a dining spot that gains 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 Franken Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mikkeller Berlin offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Limonadier Cocktailbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 8 – Berlin, Potsdam, and Hamburg
- Berlin
- Potsdam
- Hamburg
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Drive 319 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Victory Column
- Berlin Zoological Garden
- Sanssouci Palace
- Sanssouci Park
- Brandenburg Gate
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Berlin and Potsdam, 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 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Berlin, including a monument and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Siegessäule. This notable monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Berlin Zoological Garden, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Potsdam. This car ride takes around 37 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Sanssouci, a locally renowned palace that everyone visiting Potsdam should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Sanssouci Park. This history-steeped park is one of the most notable attractions in the region.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Scandic Hamburg Emporio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar 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 9 – Hamburg
- Hamburg
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Elbe Tunnel
- St Michael's Church
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Elbphilharmonie
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Day 9 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a stunning, a visually striking, a historic, a majestic, and a stunning. Start at the interesting St. Pauli Piers, a respected pier in Hamburg. Next, go to Elbe Tunnel.
After visiting St. Pauli Piers and Elbe Tunnel, take time to explore Hamburg's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Michael's Church. This stunning church offers a unique experience. Miniatur Wunderland is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Hamburg.
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.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cafe Miller is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Copa Cabana Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fontenay Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 10 – Hamburg, Behringen, and Dortmund
- Hamburg
- Behringen
- Dortmund
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Drive 362 km, 4 hours 13 min
- Chilehaus
- CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum
- Planten un Blomen
- Miniatur Wunderland
- More
On day 10 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 and Behringen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hamburg today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Chilehaus. This photogenic historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum and learn what makes this visually striking museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Planten Un Blomen.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Behringen. This drive usually takes around 51 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Behringer Heide, an intriguing nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Dortmund, 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.
Discover the culinary delights of Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 11 – Dortmund - departure day
- Dortmund - Departure day
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- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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Day 11 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund 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 Dortmund’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.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Brasserie Lotte, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ALEX Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund.
You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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!
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