11-Day Germany Road Trip from Düsseldorf traveling east to Cologne, Essen, Hamburg, Berlin, and Hanover

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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

Find your way to your hotel in Düsseldorf. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Brewery im Füchschen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The ASH Düsseldorf. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Engelchen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Cherie, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Auberge Rock Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Germany!

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Burgplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,559 visitors.

When you’re finished at Burgplatz, head to Rheinpromenade. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,033 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,015 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This aquarium is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,358 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Schloss Benrath. This famous park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,705 travelers.

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

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 3 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 Cologne, and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Each year, around 5,000,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This extraordinary amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Each year, around 1,750,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern, and classic menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Südrock Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gentlem, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Muenster. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

Red Dot Design Museum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This design museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,831 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Essen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gelsenkirchen. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nordstern Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,453 reviews.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative, and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french, and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make St. Pauli Piers your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Elbe Tunnel. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this road tunnel every year.

Planten Un Blomen is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 visitors.

When you’re finished at Planten Un Blomen, the perfect next stop is Hagenbeck Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,852 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Stadtpark. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Hamburg has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Miller. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Copa Cabana Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hamburg, and Potsdam. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Berlin. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Elbe Philharmonic Hall your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this concert hall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Miniatur Wunderland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hamburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Potsdam may take around 2 hours 58 min. Upon your arrival in Potsdam, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Sanssouci, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,145 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Sanssouci Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,286 reviews.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Berlin by securing a reservation at Rutz. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern, and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to FACIL, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative, and contemporary menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Monkey Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Saint Jean, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Green Door Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Pergamon Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 29,292 visitors. Attracting more than 1,298,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Pergamon Museum, head to Berlin Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,615 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 44,005 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Alexanderplatz. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213,494 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to East Side Gallery. This famous art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 54,103 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.

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

Dine in style at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Berlin TV Tower. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Berlin.

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.

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

On day 8 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.

Journey into the unknown at Brandenburg Gate, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 162,714 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe is a recommended place to visit. This holocaust memorial is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 45,507 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Berlin is Potsdamer Platz. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 60,557 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Berlin offers an experience you will remember.

Topography Of Terror is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Berlin. This military museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,601 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Checkpoint Charlie. Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 83,167 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

You can learn more about Berlin today by going on a tour. Berlin offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

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.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Berlin, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Berlin Wall Memorial is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,126 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Großer Tiergarten. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,436 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Siegessäule. The victory column has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Berlin Zoological Garden. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 63,593 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.

As you explore more of Hanover, 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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Seña, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sternwarte is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hanover, and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Hanover Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Herrenhausen Gardens. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Hanover to Duisburg may take around 2 hours 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Duisburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese, and sushi cuisine. This 1-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, Le Flair is known as a top local spot for its delicious french, and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Studio 1, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 11 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.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Düsseldorf’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.

Take the opportunity to see Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,034 visitors.

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

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!